Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 23 2009:
In case any Kuki armed group, currently under Suspension of Operation (SoO) pact, is found involved in the hijacking of the truck bringing medicines from Guwahati to Imphal from NH 39 between Senapati and Kangpokpi, necessary action would be initiated as soon as the investigation is over.
This was stated by Chief Minister O Ibobi on the floor of the House in response to a call attention motion put up by Dr Ng Bijoy.
Ibobi said that the truck carrying medicines, worth around Rs 70 lakhs, was hijacked from NH-39 between Senapati and Kangpokpi.
In connection with the incident, a suo motto case has been registered under Arms Act and investigation launched.
The driver of the truck was set free on the same day the truck was hijacked but the vehicle was kept back.
Police have not been able to question the driver as he is based outside the State, Ibobi said.
Yet, due action would be initiated if any Kuki outfit under SoO pact, is found involved after the police investigation, the Chief Minister assured the House.
Pledging that all efforts would be made to ensure availability of drugs in hospitals and health care centres, the Chief Minister claimed that there was no point to worry as drugs including HIV drugs worth more than Rs one crore are in stock at JN Hospital.
Earlier, raising the call attention motion, Dr Ng Bijoy asserted that the truck carrying 1131 cartons of medicines were hijacked by Kuki militants under SoO pact.
While 795 cartons have been released on another truck, 316 cartons worth around Rs 30 lakhs were being held back by the militants, Bijoy said.
Although complaints have been lodged at Sekmai and City police stations, in addition to a written representation submitted to the DGP, cartons of medicines held back by the militants could not be recovered till date.
Taking strong exception to such criminal activities perpetrated by armed groups who should be abiding by SoO ground rules, Bijoy asked if the Government has taken up any action with regard to such activities.
Observing that transport charge for one kilogram of medicines from Guwahati to Imphal has been increased to Rs 7.30 from Rs 6 following increased demands from UG elements, Dr Bijoy noted that the hike in transport charge has been taking toll on patients, particularly poor patients.
He even raised apprehension about possible unavailability of medicines due to the increased demands and transport charge.