An indefinite shutdown of trades, shops, and businesses called by the Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) began in Dimapur, Nagaland's commercial hub, on Friday. The strike was in response to ongoing extortion by underground groups.
Trade associations in other Nagaland districts also supported the Dimapur shutdown.
The DCCI had previously asked the state government to address the illegal and forced extortion of funds from the business community by underground groups. It emphasized that the authorities can no longer ignore these illegal actions that are harming businesses.
"We had to initiate the indefinite shutdown of trades because the government took no action against the extortionists," the DCCI said, citing the ongoing issues of excessive taxation, intimidation, and summons by various groups.
It urged other organizations, civil societies, and the public to support their cause.
DCCI President Akashe K. Zhimomi expressed hope that the state government would assist the business community.
In support of the DCCI's protest, the Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industries enforced a 12-hour shutdown of all businesses, excluding pharmacies and hotels, in the state capital on Friday.
Similar situations occurred in most other districts.
The Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) also declared an indefinite statewide shutdown starting Saturday.
"Extortion and harassment of the business community by underground groups cannot be tolerated and is negatively impacting the Nagaland economy," the CNCCI stated.
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