Rampant extortion of goods ferrying trucks, particularly oil and LPG tanker trucks by armed or unarmed miscreants along NH-37 (Imphal to Jiribam) became a focal point in the sixth session of 12th Manipur Legislative Assembly on Friday.
MLA K Meghachandra raised the matter in the House, drawing the attention of the Assembly during calling attention, stating that the oil tankers have decided to cease operations.
Meghachandra highlighted the hardships faced by highway drivers, stating that fuel ferrying trucks departing from Imphal to Jiribam are forced to pay over Rs 6,200 illegal taxes per truck to various groups in different areas of Imphal to Jiribam road.
The MLA mentioned that armed groups are extorting money from trucks at Rengpang, Oinamlong, Old Kaifundai to Turbung, Awang Khun and Barack to Sivilong.
The Consortium of Manipur Transporters also submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister of India but yet to receive any effective response, said MLA, underscoring the urgent need of implementing measures to protect commuters.
In response to calling attention, CAF and PD Minister Sushindro said that efforts are being made to resolve the matter.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh mentioned that it is a burning issue. Illegal tax is not a recent problem on the national highways, he said, acknowledging the hardships faced by drivers while transporting essentials taking two or three days.
He asserted that certain elements are attempting to deliver more hardships while the entire state is already going through troubled times.
The government can resort to taking up aggressive measures to solve them but it is trying to tackle the issues peacefully, he said.
He further cautioned that the Centre might reimpose AFSPA if such an unwanted scenario prevails.
“The cabinet may also review the law and order system. If the previous system of tackling such challenges are brought back, then do not blame the government,” CM Biren said.
Once the training of 10th and 11th IRB is completed, the units will be deployed to secure the Highways, he said. “More forces will be deployed under the DIG with special tasks,” the chief minister added.
