Nagaland: Considering salary cuts to fund infra, says Chief Secy

“We also understand that it is unfair that if the amendment is brought in, people in other parts of the country who are already paying other taxes will have to pay an increased professional tax,’’ said Toy, adding that there was no reason “government servants in Nagaland should not contribute to the development of the state’’.

“We have been trying to attract industries and investment in but this has been difficult. With the special provisions (371A) in place and protection for tribal land, land is generally not accepted as collateral … So investors are wary of coming to Nagaland. Our own entrepreneurs face problems because of this. So we have written to the government to bring in provisions by which banks can at least sell defaulters’ land to local Nagas,’’ said Toy.

The Chief Secretary said the proposal to divert part of government salaries for development work has already been discussed with the ruling NDPP, a BJP ally.

“Political leaders are supportive and have said that even a portion of their salaries should be diverted. We are, however, moving carefully and are in the process of verifying the legality of such a scheme…’’ said Toy.