JCF urges DMC to clarify on Sunday business directive

DIMAPUR, October 28 (MExN): The Joint Council Forum (JCF), comprising five local councils in Dimapur, on Tuesday sought clarification from the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) on whether its directive allowing businesses to open after 12 noon on Sundays applies to all categories of establishments or only to specific ones.

The JCF comprises the Middle Point Council, Churches Colony Council, NST Colony Council, Nyamo Lotha Colony Council and Khermahal Area Council.

The Forum, in a press release, welcomed the DMC’s recent initiative but said clarity was needed for smooth implementation. It asked whether the permission extends to all businesses or remains limited to those allowed under earlier directives, such as medical stores, fuel stations, eateries, hotels, bakeries and dealers in perishable goods.

The JCF reiterated its long-held position that business establishments within its jurisdictions should open only after 12 noon on Sundays. It said the practice gives employees a half-day of rest and lets local employees attend church services, while respecting the religious sentiments and Christian faith of the Naga populace.

The Forum said it believes the arrangement strikes a reasonable balance between business activity, employee welfare and the observance of Sunday as a day of worship and rest.

It also noted that several councils have earlier expressed reservations about unrestricted Sunday business operations involving all categories of establishments.

A clear clarification from the DMC, the JCF said, would ensure a common understanding among business owners, councils and the public, and allow the directive to be implemented in a transparent and uniform manner.

The Forum said it looks forward to the DMC’s guidance on the matter.