JCF clarifies on ‘voluntary’ monthly fee collection

DIMAPUR — The Joint Council Forum (JCF), comprising Churches Colony, NST Colony, and Middle Point, has clarified that the voluntary nominal monthly fee collected to support its office’s daily operations is being misinterpreted by “certain individuals with vested interests”.

In a press statement, the forum said that in response to the longstanding issue of multiple unions and associations collecting monthly contributions ranging from INR 200 to INR 2,000 from business establishments in the Clock Tower area in Dimapur, which encompasses three colonies, several complaints were received from landowners and the business community.

To address this, a joint meeting was convened by the three colony councils to discuss the issues faced by the business community and explore solutions. After discussions, the business community suggested and advised forming a joint council. Consequently, it was established to oversee affairs related to the business community’s well-being.

It claimed that to ensure the forum’s effectiveness, the business community suggested setting up an office, which was established and has been operational since April 2024. To support the office’s daily operations, the business community suggested a voluntary nominal monthly fee, emphasising that this contribution is not forcibly collected.

“Regrettably, certain individuals with vested interests misinterpreted this initiative and tarnished the forum’s reputation on social media. We wish to clarify that the joint council’s formation and collection were based on suggestions and advice from the business community itself. We assure transparency and accountability in our operations,” read the statement.

Further, it expressed gratitude to the law enforcement agencies for their efforts in taking action against the unauthorised operations of various unions and associations in the area.

Nevertheless, it said, despite their best efforts, the practice of collection still persists. The forum requested that the administration and law enforcement agencies consider taking additional steps to address this issue and prevent such activities from continuing in our area.