Dimapur, October 27: The directive issued by the NSCN/FRGN calling for the closure of shops and business establishments owned and operated by non-locals in Naga-inhabited areas has raised concerns among shop owners and members of the public, with calls for dialogue and an amicable solution that safeguards local interests without disrupting the state’s economy.
In a press release dated October 23, the Ministry of Information and Publicity of the Federal Republic Government of Nagaland stated that the decision was adopted in the interest of preserving socio-cultural values, protecting the youth and promoting self-reliance in Naga-inhabited areas. Among its resolutions, the directive calls for the closure of non-local-owned and operated businesses in phases, with the first phase to cover establishments within village, urban station and town council jurisdictions after 30 days. Municipal areas are to be covered in subsequent phases following official notification.
Talking to Nagaland News Network (NNN), several non-local shop owners expressed concern over the proposed shutdown, stating that they have been running businesses in Nagaland for many years and that establishing their enterprises has involved years of hard work, investment and sacrifice. They said closing their businesses within 30 days would be difficult, given the time and resources invested in building them.
Describing Nagaland as their home, the shop owners appealed to the state government and concerned leaders to hold discussions and explore different options before arriving at an amicable decision.Meanwhile, young members of the public acknowledged that a significant number of businesses in Nagaland are owned and operated by non-locals. They said the directive may be intended to encourage local entrepreneurship and create opportunities for Naga business owners.
However, they also raised concerns over the possible consequences of shutting down non-local-owned businesses, particularly in Dimapur, which serves as a major commercial centre for the state.The youths questioned whether such a move could increase Nagaland’s dependence on neighbouring Assam for essential goods and supplies, potentially directing more of the state’s economic activity outside Nagaland.
They also expressed concern over the possible impact on Naga youths employed in businesses owned by non-locals, urging the concerned leaders to consider the wider implications for employment, livelihoods and the local economy.
Nagaland’s dependence on supplies from outside the state also raises questions about the potential impact on distribution networks and the availability of goods if a large number of existing businesses are forced to shut down. With limited manufacturing and industrial capacity within the state, any major disruption to established trading networks could have wider consequences for consumers, workers and other businesses.
The Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) has also questioned the directive, raising concerns over its implications for business operations and governance. The Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has likewise opposed the proposed business shutdown, adding to calls for the issue to be addressed through dialogue.
While the promotion of local entrepreneurship and economic self-reliance remains an important concern, the development has prompted questions about how these objectives can be achieved without disrupting existing livelihoods, supply chains and commercial activities.Shop owners and members of the public have urged the concerned leaders and authorities to engage in constructive dialogue and explore alternatives that encourage Naga entrepreneurs, generate employment opportunities for local youths and protect the broader economic interests of the state.
