The attention of the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) is drawn to the press releases issued by Dimapur Chamber of Commerce & Industries (DCCI) and recently pertaining to the ultimatum issued on the government by Chambers of Commerce demanding nominees to the civic bodies and the ultimatum of an indefinite voluntary shutter down in support of their demands.

While we, the elected councilors who have obtained mandate of the public, leave it to the government to decide on the matter and also the public opinion on the indefinite shutter down; the DCCI, at a recent press release has renewed the demands for nominee to DMC, but also raised certain issues pertaining to the functioning of the DMC. 
Therefore, in response to such criticisms, we the elected members (Councillors) of Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) are constrained to clarify matters and put them in perspective in the interest of transparency and governance. 
Trade license fee and related charges
The DCCI had alleged as illogical escalation in trade license fees, as well as the imposition of a new variety of fees despite businesses already possessing valid trade licenses.
The DCCI had alleged as illogical escalation in trade license fees, as well as the imposition of a new variety of fees despite businesses already possessing valid trade licenses.
Trade licence fee was marginally increased for digitalization of all data and services to be provided to the vendors in the form of online apps, revival of website and online payment facilities from trade license fees only excluding the sanitation fee (for commercial establishment). 
DMC introduced a nominal fee to the wholesellers for price regulation in the market. This was done in accordance with the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, Part-IV Chapter 1 clause 124. 
If any other elements/group imposing any fee without the authorization, DMC cannot be held responsible. 
It is to be reiterated that no entity/group/union etc can impose taxes or fees for license/permit/commodities within DMC without its authorization. 
Only the DMC is legally empowered as per the Nagaland Municipal Act to collect specific taxes/fee for permits/ commodities within its jurisdiction. Therefore, any other elements/group other then DMC will be deemed illegal.

Issue of sanitation fee (RSF)
Regarding sanitation fee, the DMC was compelled to marginally raise the fee from Rs.60 to Rs.80 in view of catering to the need for expanded area of operations and provide efficient services.

On the imposition of lease on items like mineral water, potato, tomato, dry fish etc., and accompanying price rise affected consumers, DMC has to state the following:
That DMC has not authorized or permitted syndication of items as mentioned above and reaffirm that it stands for the welfare of the public who voted for the councilors to form the DMC. Therefore, DMC stands opposed to such unauthorized collection or syndication of market that impact not only the local farmers but the Naga entrepreneurs and public.

On allegations over the controversial sale of items like Christmas Star, dustbin and fire extinguisher by ULBs, and reminder that the role of the ULBs was to govern locally and regulate and not become business enterprises; DMC states the following: 
DMC would like to set the record straight that the sale of Christmas star, dustbins and fire extinguishers was done through a transparent manner and in accordance with NMA 2023.

However, it is admitted that the entire issue should have been properly monitored. 
We appreciate the advice given to DMC to run its affairs. However, it needs to be reminded that we the elected councillors who have obtained the mandate of the public, seek cooperation from all sections of society in order to make Dimapur urban area take its rightful place not only as the commercial capital but also a thriving metropolitan city in Nagaland.
Furthermore, for any clarification, the office of the DMC and its councillors can be contacted at its office.