Questioning the expenditure, DDCC has filed an RTI against the Urban Development and other departments involved, demanding the formation of a committee with DDCC members to investigate alleged fund mismanagement.
By Imna Longchar, TFM Nagaland Correspondent
Dimapur District Congress Committee (DDCC) on Friday raised concerns over the renovation of the Town Hall at Naga Shopping Arcade (NSA), Dimapur. The project, inaugurated by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on December 17 last year, had a budget allocation of Rs 19.90 crores. Questioning the expenditure, DDCC has filed an RTI against the Urban Development and other departments involved, demanding the formation of a committee with DDCC members to investigate alleged fund mismanagement.
DDCC media in-charge, Andrew Humtsoe, stated at a press conference at Congress Bhavan, Dimapur, that the RTI application was filed on February 19. The response, received on March 12, revealed that the project was awarded to M/S Chabou & Co. Following this, DDCC members inspected the town hall on March 17 and found the renovations to be merely a “makeover,” far below the expectations set by the allocated budget.
Despite the inauguration, Humtsoe pointed out that several works remain incomplete, as per the engineer’s assessment, and the hall remains closed to the public for rental use.
DDCC president, Kutoho Chishi, questioned the Development Authority of Nagaland (DAN) about the tender process, as the project was under the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) mode, which typically requires open bidding. While acknowledging the quality of the contractor’s work, he stated that the sum allocated for renovation was excessively high.
Chishi highlighted specific expenditures, including Rs 1,34,69,679.89 for a three-sided boundary wall, and Rs 2 crore each for video and audio installations. He also noted that the seating capacity was reduced from 600 to approximately 300, with new chairs costing over Rs 53.83 lakhs. Additionally, the hall’s lighting setup amounted to Rs 1,09,03,787.
Chishi disclosed that DDCC has filed further RTI applications against the Urban Development Department and other agencies in connection with the financial irregularities.
General Secretary, DDCC, Kumjimong, revealed that an earlier RTI application seeking the audit report of the project was found to be missing.
Inauguration and Government Justification
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio emphasized the importance of infrastructure development in Dimapur, stating that well-maintained public assets are crucial for economic growth. He noted that the town hall’s location makes it a vital facility for the city and the state.
Rio explained that the upgradation project incorporated modern, durable materials, enhanced acoustic treatment, upgraded lighting, and centralized air conditioning. He also highlighted that the project’s improvements would reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to constructing a new facility.
Nagaland’s Advisor for Tribal Affairs and Election, H. Tovihoto Ayemi, termed the inauguration as a “momentous” occasion, marking a new chapter for Dimapur. He recalled that the original town hall foundation was laid in 1986 by then-Chief Minister S.C. Jamir but had deteriorated over time. He credited Rio’s leadership for fulfilling the long-standing need for an upgraded town hall.
Tovihoto urged the public to responsibly use and preserve the facility, emphasizing its significance for the community.
Cost Breakdown and Delays
The renovation and upgradation covered approximately 50% of the town hall’s neglected portions at a cost of Rs 19.90 crores. The facility now features 400 reclining chairs, advanced lighting and sound systems, an LED screen, and a backup power generator.
The project, under EPC mode, was awarded to M/S Chabou & Co., Kohima, with a work order issued on June 3, 2023, and a completion deadline of 12 months. However, it was only completed on December 10, 2024—six months behind schedule.
Superintending Engineer of DAN, Dimapur, Mhonlumo Ngullie, attributed the delays to multiple factors, including modifications to the front façade to incorporate tribal motifs based on inputs from the Chief Minister and Advisor, UDD & MAD. Additionally, a redesigned boundary wall required demolishing shops in front of the town hall.
Midway through the project, a second structural stability test indicated the need for retrofitting two columns with steel jacketing to enhance their strength and load-bearing capacity. The stepped elevation for seating was also incorporated based on Rio’s suggestions during his visit on October 26.
Out of the Rs 19.90 crore budget, Rs 2 crores came from state funding, while Rs 15.73 crores were allocated under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment scheme. As of now, Rs 17.73 crores have been received for the project.