DCCI Slams DMC for Unjust Taxation: Outrage Grows Over Unregulated Practices | MorungExpress
Dimapur, October 11: The Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industries (DCCI) has voiced serious concerns over the ongoing challenges faced by the business community due to an alleged unregulated and unjust taxation system in Dimapur. In a press statement, the DCCI highlighted the burden of multiple and double taxation imposed by local municipal authorities, which it claims are crippling the local business environment.
The DCCI criticized these practices as unjustified and illegal, pointing out instances where the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) collects taxes on goods already covered under the GST regime. Specifically, it alleged that the DMC has collected significant amounts from second-hand clothing sales subjected to GST and levied monthly regulation fees of Rs 1000 per shop. The DMC also reportedly imposed a steep one-time fee on stores selling festive decorative items.
Moreover, the DCCI accused the DMC of inconsistent taxation on perishable goods, such as tomatoes, potatoes, and onions. The council has allegedly been imposing arbitrary charges without fixed rates, including levies on vehicles transporting these goods, thus affecting consumer prices negatively.
The DCCI expressed alarm over the DMC’s non-compliance with the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, particularly Section 124, which governs taxation measures. It highlighted a disregard for the standing government directive from November 16, 2021, prohibiting municipal and town councils from collecting taxes on GST-covered items. The DCCI categorized these actions as illegal and unacceptable, calling for urgent corrective measures.
The Chamber warned of potential widespread repercussions across Nagaland if such practices persist and emphasized that any form of taxation inevitably impacts citizens. It urged municipal councils to align with state laws and reduce the financial strain on the public. The DCCI called on the government to act swiftly against municipalities breaching legal provisions and urged the DMC to stop summoning business groups unjustly.
Original Story https://www.morungexpress.com/dcci-calls-out-dmc-for-unregulated-taxation
Category : Nagaland
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