The Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) has withdrawn its indefinite shutter-down protest after claiming to have received a written assurance from the state government regarding their long-standing demand for representation in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). The shutdown, which began earlier on Monday, brought business activity to a halt in nine districts — including Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland, Peren, Wokha, Zunheboto, Phek, Tseminyu, and Meluri — as traders demanded that each District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) be given one seat in the respective ULBs.
Speaking at a press conference, CNCCI president Dr. Hekugha Muru said the decision to call off the protest was taken following a written assurance from the government. “We have fought for this representation for four years. The shutdown was our last resort, and we are grateful for the public’s support,” he said. Muru also clarified that CNCCI never intended to hurt public sentiment and said that the protest was peaceful and voluntary, with essential services operating as usual.
However, a Municipal Affairs Department official denied any such assurance was issued, raising questions over the clarity of communication between the government and CNCCI. Despite this, Muru remained firm, saying the assurance would be taken up in an upcoming cabinet meeting or assembly session. He added that if the government fails to act, CNCCI is prepared to extend the agitation to all 17 districts.
