NPCC Minority Department urges dialogue and official clarity over the recent directive on Sunday shop closures
DIMAPUR — The Minority Department of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee has expressed concern regarding a reported directive dated October 23 calling for Sunday shop closures and the shutdown of businesses in the state.
In a press statement, the department stated that the issue should be addressed through dialogue, mutual respect, and the rule of law, while recognising Nagaland’s distinct cultural and religious values.
Noting that Nagaland’s Christian heritage and the importance of Sunday as a day of worship, rest, and family life deserve sincere respect, the department appealed to traders and business establishments to show sensitivity to the faith and customs of the people of the state.
The Minority department extended its cooperation and encouraged businesses, wherever practicable, to observe Sunday closure in a spirit of goodwill, understanding, and respect for Christian values.
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At the same time, the department recognised that the reported directive may have created doubt, uncertainty, and panic among traders and business establishments. It urged the Government of Nagaland and the concerned authorities to issue a clear and timely clarification on the authenticity, legal status, scope, and implementation of the directive so that no business owner is left to act on rumours or fear.
The department advised traders to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and seek guidance from competent authorities.
The statement stressed that any measure affecting livelihoods must be lawful, fair, and implemented with due process. It noted that Indian citizens and linguistic minorities who have lived and worked in Nagaland for generations contribute to the state’s social and economic life, and asserted that their dignity, safety, and lawful livelihoods must be respected.
The department added that concerns should be addressed through dialogue and lawful procedures, rather than intimidation, arbitrary exclusion, or discrimination based on origin.
Calling upon community leaders, traders, civil society, and all residents to preserve peace and refrain from inflammatory statements, the department appealed for cooperation in finding a practical arrangement that respects Christian values, protects livelihoods, and strengthens peaceful coexistence.
It noted that respect for Nagaland’s culture and Christian values must go hand in hand with dignity, reassurance, lawful opportunity, and sustainable development for every lawful resident.