Briefing media persons in the presence of top civil and police officials after the conclusion of a marathon meeting on the issue of ‘illegal collection of money at check gates/highways by unions/NGOs/government departments, etc’ yesterday, Imchen said the State government does not have any objection to the formation of societies or associations as per norms but it seriously objects to unions or associations resorting to extortion at public places.

He said associations can be formed but pointed that collecting taxes from public places is not permissible. It amounts to extortion and therefore liable for punishment under criminal law, he added. The Home Minister said that the meeting had decided to henceforth disband unions and associations found indulging in such collections.