GNNC/DSRN issues statement condemning corruption and illegal taxation while seeking RIIN implementation
DIMAPUR — The Government of Naga National Council/Democratic Socialist Republic of Nagaland (GNNC/DSRN) has issued a statement criticising widespread taxation and institutional corruption across the state, while advocating the implementation of the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) and declaring a tax exemption for indigenous Nagas.
In a press release issued by its Ministry of Information and Publicity, the group asserted that Naga culture is not being practised in Nagaland today.
The release stated that in the early years of the freedom movement under the NNC, rules were clear, with taxes collected strictly for Naga Army rations and house tax. It noted that those freedom fighters never sought luxury houses, vehicles, or properties and anchored their sovereignty cause in the plebiscite, adding that whoever participated in it are genuine Nagas.
It recalled that when the Naga Army visited villages, their food and accommodation were provided by villagers, and any additional financial requirement was approved only after formal meetings between leaders and authorities.
The group claimed that modern national workers "cannot go back to the jungle with big bellies looted from the public through various taxes and a judiciary system", alleging that multiple factions operate for money under the guise of national work while living in comfort and moving in posh vehicles.
It called on Nagas to stop paying taxes.
The release highlighted that heavy taxation has made it difficult for families to afford household expenses and children's school fees. It stated that government employees face threats and extortion that hinder them from discharging their duties. It also alleged that ministers and top government officials cut percentages ranging from 5 to 10 per cent on contractors, leading to low-grade development where roads do not last through a single monsoon.
The GNNC/DSRN raised questions over funds in the Rural Development department, alleging that INR 185 crore under Grants to Excluded Areas in Part IX and IX A of the Constitution of India (grants to rural local bodies) for 2017-2018 never reached the respective blocks and was lost midway. It demanded clarification from the Government of Nagaland and called for an investigation by either the CBI or ED.
The group further alleged that corruption complaints submitted to the Lokayukta in Kohima have seen no action due to coordination between the institution and concerned departments. It argued that taxes collected from business establishments are ultimately borne by the public, driving price inflation.
The release questioned the payment of GST by Nagas, asserting that Nagas were independent and never dominated. It urged the state government to implement RIIN to ensure that only indigenous people participate and non-indigenous people leave Nagaland.
Listing a 10-point charter, the group stated that corruption amounts to stealing from children, described fear as the weapon of armed groups, praised the sacrifices of past freedom fighters, and condemned silence in the face of robbery. It called for unity against factionalism, demanding public accounts in every department and village project, urging the public to stop fearing summonses, and encouraging the youth to lead the movement against extortion to restore true Naga values of honesty, hard work, and mutual respect.
“This Government will collect taxes from all non-Nagas — non-Naga contractors, non-Naga business establishments, and every non-Naga earning in Nagaland. All Nagas are exempted. This is non-negotiable,” it read, adding that it will not tolerate corruption from any civil organisation, government official, administration, union, or authority, warning of strict action against anyone involved in illegal collection, commission cuts, or misuse of power.