Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry raises alarm over illegal tolls, ILP harassment and poor roads

DIMAPUR — Ranging from illegal toll collections to harassment in the guise of Inner Line Permit (ILP) checks, the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) has urged the state government to immediately address a series of issues affecting the business community and members of the public in Dimapur.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the trade body flagged the resurfacing of illegal collections at check gates despite a government order (May 19, 2022) directing their closure.

It called for the dismantling of all check gates, including those set up by the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC).

According to the DCCI, four-wheelers and two-wheelers transporting goods are being taxed multiple times, while perishable items such as vegetables face additional levies per crate, basket, or box even after reaching markets. “These are among the main reasons for rising prices,” it stated.

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Calling for an overhaul of the DMC’s parking tax structure, the chamber suggested a uniform and reduced hourly rate, bringing down charges from the present INR 20/30 to ease the financial burden on citizens and traders.

It also expressed concern over reports of harassment of traders during ILP checking, terming it “another form of taxation.”

It condemned the practice of summoning businessmen to headquarters and designated camps, and alleged that incidents of kidnapping linked to taxation had recently surfaced.

While acknowledging police efforts in solving many such cases, the chamber urged law enforcement agencies to provide greater protection to the business community.

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It highlighted the “unmotorable” condition of Dimapur’s main roads due to prolonged rains, which it said has hit all sections of society. As taxpayers, both traders and the public have the right to demand better road infrastructure, it added, urging authorities to take prompt remedial action.

The DCCI also warned against the forceful formation of new welfare committees and unions in areas where such bodies already exist, saying this could create unhealthy divisions among business members and disrupt daily trade.

It further reiterated that the chamber will not entertain donation or fundraising drives of any kind, including lotteries, calendars, buffet tickets, or festive collections.