Nagaland: NSCN/FRGN directives draw stiff opposition; officials reaffirm state authority

Morung Express NewsDimapur | October 27A recent directives purportedly concerning Sunday shop closures, businesses operated by non-locals and the sale of alcohol have drawn opposition from political and business organisations, while district officials have reaffirmed that they would follow the state government’s directives.Among others, the October 23 directives attributed the National Socialist Council of Nagaland/Federal Republic Government of Nagaland (NSCN/FRGN) and carried by digital news outlets, reportedly mandated Sunday closure of business establishments and the phased shutdown of businesses owned or operated by non-locals within 30 days. There was also a total ban on the sale of alcohol and strict action against drug peddling and prostitution.Reacting to development to a digital news outlet, N Kitovi Zhimomi, Convener of the Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs), called for the immediate withdrawal of the directives and an apology to the public. He also demanded that the FRGN dissolve, describing it as an unrecognised entity without the authority to issue such mandates. Kitovi urged state government officials to intervene, warning that the failure to address the issue could compel his group to take action.As per the report by Nagaland News Network, Kitovi held the directives could adversely affect the future of Naga youth and the state’s economic prospects. He argued that Nagaland needed investment and economic opportunities to progress, and cautioned that the measures could send the wrong signal to potential investors.He also referred to the Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position, stating that the agreements encouraged peaceful coexistence with non-Nagas.In a press release on Tuesday, Neokpao-led WC, NNPGs aslo asked the NSCN/FRGN to withdraw its October 23 statement and tender an “unqualified apology.” It also directed the group to disband within two weeks or face “consequences.”Business organisations, including the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) as well as Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) have also raised concerns over the directives and their implications for lawful businesses, livelihoods and the state’s economic environment.Meanwhile in separate statement on October 27, the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) and the Chümoukedima Chamber of Commerce & Trade Association (CCC&TA) expressed solidarity with the CNCCI in opposing the directives.The DCCI also backed concerns raised by the NCD over the closure of non-local business establishments and the regulation of commercial activities.The chambers maintained that promoting Naga entrepreneurship should not come at the cost of the lawful rights and livelihoods of other business communities. They called for the protection of lawful businesses and said issues concerning commercial activities should be addressed through legal and constitutional mechanisms. The DCCI also urged the state government, district administration and law-enforcement agencies to clarify the legal status of the directives and ensure the safety of business establishments.The CCC&TA described the Sunday closure order as arbitrary and contrary to constitutional governance, due process and free trade and commerce. It stressed that no individual or organisation should face coercion or intimidation without lawful authority and called for essential movement, particularly for sick persons, tourists and families, to be facilitated.Meanwhile, as per reports, district administration officials said that they would act in accordance with the law and directives issued by the state government. Officials also stated that the administration and police would coordinate to maintain law and order and strengthen security in public and market areas if required.Business owners and members of the public who face threats, extortion or other illegal demands have been urged to inform the nearest police station or the district administration for necessary action.The Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) has also indicated that it would consult the business community on the matter and communicate further decisions following discussions.The NSCN/FRGN has recently surfaced in public discourse through such statements, although its formation and organisational status could not be independently verified.