Imphal, August 05, 2010: Forum for Social Harmony has appealed for lifting of the economic blockade being imposed by United Naga Council (UNC) along the National Highways 39 and 53 for 20 days since August in consideration of suffering of the people who still reeling under the impact of the earlier 68-day long blockade.

Addressing a press conference in this connection at the office of HERICOUN here today afternoon, spokesperson of the Forum Joy Khuman pointed out that the people are still facing the problem of shortage of essential commodities on account of the earlier 68-day long economic blockade imposed by ANSAM.

So reimposition of blockade for another 20 days by UNC since August 4 would compound the situation.

Instead of blockade, UNC should think of taking up some other form of agitations to pursue its demands, Joy suggested, adding that violating the life to rights of over 25 lakh people in pursuance of some demands, is not the right approach.

After the 68-day long economic blockade imposed by ANSAM along the National Highways 39 and 53 and the subsequent decision of the Transporters and Drivers' Council not to ply along the National Highway 39 in pursuance of their demand, the suffering of the people in Manipur has been manifold.

So, the Govt and UNC should try to arrive at an amicable solution to end the blockade in the interest of the people, Joy added.