Mizoram merchants thumb-down new regulation
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network
Aizawl, January 12 2014 :
MIMA disapproves AMC Regulation as unsafe.
A joint meeting of various merchant groups under the aegis of Mizoram Merchant Association ( MIMA) was held in this regard and to re-evaluate 'the Aizawl Municipal Council Licensing Regulation, 2012' .
The joint meeting had a deliberation on the Aizawl Municipal Council (AMC)'s demand of every entrepreneur and merchant group to register themselves in Aizawl Municipal Council as per the Aizawl Municipal Council Licensing Regulation, 2012' and it is found that the regulation does not provide any right for protection and safeguarding of the native merchant (son of soil).
Consequent upon the finding of insecurity with the regulation, MIMA sternly asked every entrepreneur and merchant group not to register under the regulation.
The requisite documents for registration as asked under this Licensing Regulations are: (1) NOC from the house or land owner (2) NOC from Local Council (3) EPIC (4) Residential Certificate (5) Two copies of Passport photos (6) License/ Registration Certificate from Food Licensing Authority, H & FW Deptt ( for selling eatable items) ( 7) Receipt of Application Form from AMC.
These requisites for merchant registration and the regulations in itself according to MIMA do a not provide any prohibition of outsider (Non-Mizo) from registration.
The non-native merchants who aspire for registration, with the help of the regulations can even sue AMC, MIMA said.
"If the outsiders (Non- Mizo merchants) are able to register themselves under AMC, the future of Mizoram business will be in the hands of a non-Mizo merchant which can further result in economic/geographical imperialism of the state and assimilation of the Mizo tribes- their culture and religion," MIMA said.
Seeing some defects and improper with the regulations, MIMA with this effects appeal AMC to recapitulate and bring improvement over the regulations that provide the protection of Mizo/ native merchant before 10th February.
In case the proposal and appeal of MIMA is not materialized, MIMA warns that it will take up any aggressive steps- including total bandh, economic blockade or shut down of shops and business establishments.
It also appeals to all who face problem because of non-registration under Licensing Regulations to report themselves before the MIMA General Headquarters.