Truck set ablaze, vandalised
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 17 2016:
While a mini-truck was set ablaze at Jiribam, around 30 oil-tankers were vandalised at Senapati by supporters of the economic blockade called by the All Manipur Written Test Successful Candidates of Manipur Police Constable (Male) 2013.Moreover, two drivers also sustained injuries.
A Tata Xenon mini-truck transporting betel leaves from Jiribam was set ablaze by suspected blockade supporters in between Awangkhul and Langkhong, Tamenglong district at around 11.30 am.
Meanwhile, a team of the All Manipur Road Transport Drivers and Motor Workers Union went to Senapati and inspected the situation today.
The union's general secretary Maimom Anil told media persons that they cannot say anything when some organisations/people impose bandh/blockade but the way drivers were attacked without giving any prior information is highly condemnable.
The union will not remain silent on the matter and the Government should provide necessary assistance to innocent drivers.
Some drivers who encountered the attack have expressed resentment against the way CRPF personnel escorted the convoy of oil tankers.
Another source informed that a driver of a Tata truck transporting papers too sustained injuries on the head.
Notably, the economic blockade which was called since last midnight would continue till August 23 midnight, according to an announcement made earlier.
Meanwhile, taking strong exception to the attack, oil tanker drivers have launched cease work strike since this afternoon.
Subsequently, daily operation at IOC's Chingmeirong depot was also suspended since around 1.30 pm.
IOC's Imphal Divisional Retail Sales Manager cum State Level Coordinator Sinam Ibungoton, accompanied by other IOC officials called on the Chief Secretary and urged the Chief Secretary to take all necessary security measures.
The IOC team also submitted a representation to the Chief Secretary.
The Chief Secretary, responding to the IOC team, directed the Additional Secretary (Home) to take up adequate security measures.
It is reported that a joint meeting of transporters and IOC officials would be held at the office of the CAF&PD Commissioner at 10 am tomorrow to discuss the unfolding situation.