Nagaland business closure directives controversy

Business organizations and local government bodies in Nagaland have voiced opposition to directives reportedly issued by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland/Federal Republic Government of Nagaland (NSCN/FRGN). The directives allegedly mandate the complete closure of all businesses on Sundays and the shutdown of non-local establishments within a 30-day period.

The Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) and the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) Minority Department called for government clarification, seeking assurance that the state administration maintains control and requesting an investigation into the legality of the orders. The NPCC noted that the reports have caused “uncertainty and panic among traders.”

In Dimapur and Chümoukedima, the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) and East Dimapur Town Council (EDTC) asserted that regulating market hours falls under their jurisdiction, maintaining that shops may remain open on Sundays following church services. The Dimapur Deputy Commissioner stated the district administration would follow state government directives rather than orders from political groups. Additionally, the Linguistic Minority Forum of Nagaland (LMFN) urged authorities to protect the rights of long-settled non-Naga residents, citing concerns regarding constitutional rights to equality and lawful trade.