DIMAPUR, May 19: The indefinite voluntary business shutdown, which was initiated by the District Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) in nine districts of Nagaland starting Monday, has been officially called off. The protest was aimed at urging the Nagaland government to nominate one representative from each district headquarters into the respective urban local bodies (ULBs).

The decision to withdraw the shutdown was announced during a press conference on Monday evening by the Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) president, Khekugha Muru. The CNCCI is the umbrella body of all DCCIs across Nagaland.

Muru, joined by other CNCCI and DCCI officials, stated that the call to end the protest followed a written communication from the state government promising to address their demand. The government assured that the matter would be taken up in an upcoming cabinet meeting or during the next session of the state assembly.

He also highlighted that the shutdown—enforced in Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland, Peren, Wokha, Zunheboto, Phek, Tseminyu, and Meluri—was nearly 100% successful and peaceful, with no reports of untoward incidents.

While the bandh had a major impact on commercial activity, essential services such as government offices, schools, and banks continued to operate normally, particularly in Dimapur and Chumoukedima where most businesses remained closed but a few shops stayed open during the day.

Muru praised the unity and support demonstrated by the public and business community, noting that the successful protest reflected the widespread desire of traders to be actively involved in decision-making at the ULB level.

However, he warned that if the government fails to honor its commitment, the CNCCI would intensify its protest, potentially extending a total shutdown across all 17 districts of Nagaland.