Imphal, July 01 2010: Along with organising a panel discussion on the topic of 'National Highways', Manipur Peace and Integrity Council (MAPI Council) observed its 10th foundation day at Manipur Press Club here today.

The discussion was moderated by Retired Judge C Upendra.

After the discussion session, five recommendations have been adopted.

Endorsing an earlier decision of the transporters not to ply on National Highway 39 until the NSCN (IM) stops extortion and harassment, the first recommendation said that the Government of India as well as Governments of Nagaland and Manipur should give compensation for the damages to public properties along the National Highways 39 and 53 during the recent economic blockade.

Decrying imposition of illegal taxes of various kinds by the NSCN (IM) along National Highways 39 and 53, in total violation of the ceasefire ground rules, as well as killing and torturing of innocent civilians, the session recommended that the Government of India as well as the Govts of Nagaland and Manipur should convene a tripartite conference for taking up necessary measures to stop collection of illegal taxes at once.

Furthermore, the session recommended that the officials of the Central Government and Government of Manipur, representatives of BRO, various communities, civil organisations and all other stakeholders should come together to discuss and finalise development of National Highway 53 .

The session also recommended payment of exgratia to the families of the two students who lost their lives as well as to all those who sustained injuries in the Mao Gate incident of June 6 .

Associate Professor of Department of Economics, MU Dr Ch Priyoranjan; president of All Manipur Road Transport Drivers and Motor Workers' Union S Manglem; Director of Academic Staff College, MU Dr RK Ranjan, guest lecturer in Department of Political Science, MU Dr Dhanabir Laishram, etc were among the those who spoke and participated in the panel discussion as resource persons.