Kohima, May 29 (MExN): A high level meeting relating to illegal collection of money at check gates/highways by trade unions, NGOs, government department etc. was held today at the office chamber of Chief Secretary. Briefing media persons after the meeting, Home Minister Imkong L. Imchen said that the meeting discussed about money extortion by various unions and associations especially in and around Dimapur.
“While state government does not have any obligation to those unions/associations who want to form and recognize with the state government as per the norms, government has got serious objection to those union/associations who are resorting to extortion from public places,” said Imchen.
Therefore, the Minister said the government has decided to disband such associations /union henceforth. This decision was made under the compelling situation of price rise of various items in the market, which is affecting everybody.
He said that association/unions can be formed, membership can be realized in their respective office a s per their society by-law. But extorting money from public place is not permissible saying it amounts to extortion and therefore liable for punishment under criminal laws. He said any union/association indulging in such extortion shall not be allowed.
Asked whether the government is also taking any measure in other districts, the Home Minister said that it will be applied uniformly in all districts of the state and it would come into effect immediately. He stated that official notification will be issued. He said that government will be implementing the decision through administration and police.
Those present in the meeting included Chief Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary and Commissioner Nagaland, DGP, Additional DGP, Home Commissioner, Commissioner and Secretary Forests, Secretary Law, DC and SP Dimapur, representatives from excise and taxes, urban development, labour and employment and Kohima Municipal Council.
