DIMAPUR, JULY 2 (MExN): The Nagaland Timber Traders’ Union (NTTU) has come out in open support of the state government’s decision to put a check on rampant illegal taxation and extortion by various organizations. It is high time that all citizens put their heads together to curb the twin menace, the traders reminded.
The union in a press note from its executives said the “bold statement” of the Home minister has given a ray of hope to the public, especially traders, businessmen and entrepreneurs, presently weighed down by over-taxation and extortion.
Appreciating the state government’s initiative to streamline legal taxation, the union however said traders and businessmen are still burdened due to rampant collection of “taxes” by underground groups. Despite repeated pleas to these groups, NTTU said some traders still have to pay “taxes” six to seven times for a single item. Urging the NSCNs and FGN/NNC groups to also streamline their collection into “one goods one tax”, NTTU said the various Naga armed groups should heed to the voice of the public if they are really working in the interest of the Naga.
“If they impose single tax on one item within reasonable limit, then traders are willing to cooperate. But imposing tax six to seven times on the same goods is downright illegal and amounts to extortion,” the union asserted. Highlighting on the plight of timber traders, NTTU said rampant taxation has affected hundreds of Naga families who depend on timber, directly or indirectly, for their livelihood and sustenance.
The union also said that the decision to stop transportation of timber with effect from July 5 next till rampant “taxation” was checked, would lead to mass unrest as hundreds of families would be affected. Calling upon the public, traders and businessmen to cooperate with the government in rooting out the menace of “illegal taxation”, the NTTU felt that other ministers and public leaders should be vocal in condemning the “taxation” culture.
The union also urged plantation owners to lend their voice in the fight against illegal taxation and extortion. “If this trend continues, then a time will come when the plantation owners would not be able to transport timber even for their own use,” NTTU said.
