This refers to the article appearing in your esteemed daily dated 23-03-06, under the caption “Rejoinder to illegal collection” on vehicles, especially heavy vehicles- Trucks, plying between Dimapur and Kohima. It is a matter of surprise to find the DMC, president of DTOA & MWU took the trouble to clarify while the matter was never addressed to them.
Though it is heartening to learn that the DTOA & MWU had stop collection permanent membership fees and temporary fees daily some 15 months ago. But the receipt available speaks a different story that the collection are still going at DMC toll gate, Dimapur. It is for the authority to investigate and clarify compulsory collection, however justified it may be, and if not sanctioned by law is illegal. Such and similar illegal collections rampantly taking place at every check gate causing unnecessary burden to the common people. This is precisely the reason why the matter has been brought before his Excellency the Governor of Nagaland to stop such illegal collection under his government. For after all under the Constitution of India. The government. Of Nagaland has a responsibility for good governance of the state.
In view of the above, DMC or president of DTOA & MWU or any organizations need not reply if they are collecting taxes / fees under any law or for that matter had been addressed to the highest authority of the state.
T .L. Angami
(Advisor, GBFN)
