GNNC-DSRN envisions inclusive government for Nagas

DIMAPUR — The Government of Naga National Council – Democratic Socialist Republic of Nagaland (GNNC-DSRN) has reiterated its  vision of creating a government where like-minded intellectuals and educated unemployed youth can come together to fight for justice, stand firmly against corruption, and uphold the true cause of the Naga movement.

In a press release, the group stated that its guiding ideology is to ensure equal opportunities for all Nagas, irrespective of tribe, caste, or gender.

Towards this, the GNNC-DSRN has come out with key agendas, stating “what we stand for and what we stand against.”

1.            No other form of taxation shall be levied upon the Nagas. However, every Naga shall by default contribute house tax and Naga army ration. These contributions shall be made compulsory for non-locals residing in Nagaland.

2.            All non-locals residing in Nagaland shall be subject to applicable forms of taxation such as shop tax, work permit fees, business establishment tax, vehicle tax, and other relevant levies.

3.            Any Naga who has obtained a permit for trade or other activities but transfers the rights or control of such business to a non-local shall be liable to pay tax.

4.            The government shall not tolerate any non-local attempting to challenge or assert supremacy over the rights and interests of indigenous Naga inhabitants. The government appealed to the state government to award contract works exclusively to qualified Naga contractors, as many first-class Naga contractors are fully capable of executing high-quality projects. The group regretted that certain ministers and departmental authorities reportedly take a percentage from contractors, including other faction groups in Nagaland, as a form of yearly 'tax.

5.            Though the central government has generously sanctioned substantial amounts, schemes, projects, and other developmental works for the welfare of Nagaland, the GNNC-DSRN observed that many of these projects either fail to reach the State or are misappropriated. The Rural Development department has been identified as one of the most corrupt departments in Nagaland.

6.            In certain villages, the chairman and secretary are instructed to sign for or receive the full amount of funds (100%), while simultaneously, the department allegedly demands that the VDB secretary refund up to 80% of the received funds.

7.            The GNNC-DSRN noted that the only food and vegetable processing plant in Nagaland, located at Viola colony, Dimapur, and acquired by the Industry department, is currently defunct. “Surprisingly, unauthorised settlements by small non-local communities have emerged within the premises of this government- owned plant. It raises serious concerns as to why eviction has not been carried out to date, and whether there is a deliberate attempt by vested authorities within the Industry department to convert government land into private possession.”

8.            The GNNC-DSRN also observed that the main highways and roads within the village, particularly the Rangapahar Bypass connecting Seluophe Junction to Doyapur, have deteriorated to a deplorable condition due to substandard construction and failure to adhere to specific contract agreements. The concerned contractor has been directed to repair and maintain the road in accordance with the terms of the contract. Similarly, the deplorable condition of Kohima-Chakhabama-Pfutsero-Jessami road has been causing immense hardship to the local population. Contractors awarded these works are expected to complete them promptly and in full compliance with contractual standards, without employing delay tactics. Furthermore, numerous other roads across Nagaland, connecting various districts including Eastern Nagaland, require urgent improvement and quality repairs in accordance with contract specifications.

9.            The GNNC-DSRN viewed that factions and FNR not genuinely committed to the Naga cause should voluntarily disband and allow those with true motives to lead. The public must not suffer because of factionalism; irresponsible groups should engage the state government, present their demands, and get a package of their desire. Further, the GNNC-DSRN stated that all sixty MLAs of Nagaland state should resign and pave the way for the Naga movement to pursue a just and lasting solution.

Also read: New Naga political group GNNC-DSRN announces its formation