Kohima: The Confederation of Nagaland Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CNCCI) has clarified that there is no blanket ban on paan masala in Nagaland. During a press conference in Dimapur on June 15, the trade body addressed widespread confusion following a June 4 directive from the State Food Safety Authority that restricted food products containing tobacco and nicotine.
CNCCI Chairperson Dr. Khekugha Muru stated that the confusion arose because the public and local enforcement agencies conflated the Food Safety Act with the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). He explained that major brands sold in the state currently carry valid FSSAI licenses and are manufactured without nicotine or tobacco, following a 2016 Supreme Court ruling that prompted manufacturers to shift away from traditional gutkha.
Muru criticized recent unauthorized raids by civil society groups, which have led to the destruction of legitimate commercial stock. "I want to convey to the public of Nagaland, including consumers, non-consumers, watchdogs, advocacy groups, and NGOs, the distinction between the relevant acts," he said. He urged groups to report suspected illegalities to the police or district administration rather than taking the law into their own hands.
CNCCI Treasurer Kevin Yepthomi noted that the uncertainty caused by vague government guidelines and viral social media rumors has led to artificial shortages and price gouging. In some areas, products typically sold for 10 rupees were being marked up to 50 rupees by traders.
Beyond the current ban controversy, the CNCCI warned against trade syndicates and monopolies operating within the state. Muru alleged that some manufacturing companies are colluding with select distributors to block local Naga entrepreneurs from securing dealerships. The organization plans to conduct independent tests on product samples and pursue legal action to ensure fair trade practices, vowing to prevent illicit syndicates from disrupting the regional commercial landscape.
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