State to approach Centre on NH-bar
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 19 2013 :
By blocking NH 2 (Imphal-Dimapur highway) in connection with the road mishap involving a Manipur bound truck in which one person was killed and two others injured at Jakhama in Nagaland, people of the area have been demanding Rs 20 lakhs from the truck owner.
If the highway is not opened by today, the State Government would approach the Union Home Ministry, stated Government spokesman and Education Minister M Okendro.
Speaking to some media persons at his office today, Okendro informed that the truck owner has already come up with an offer of Rs five lakhs as compensation as against the demand of Rs 20 lakhs made by bandh supporters.
Notwithstanding the difference on compensation amount, the State Government cannot remain silent any more for the bandh has already entered into several days.
Pointing out that the driver of the truck has been already arrested by police along with seizure of the particular truck, the Education Minister conveyed sorrow over the tragic accident.
Even if a bandh was called in protest, it cannot drag on for days.
The State Government deputed Mao AC MLA L Dikho to talk with the Nagaland Government on the matter today.
In case the meeting could not come to any agreement, State will take up the matter with the Union Home Ministry.
The stranded vehicles would also be brought to Imphal using security forces.
Already, the Chief Secretary and DGP have talked about the matter with their Nagaland counterparts.
If the bandh continues any longer, the State would face shortage of fuel oils, Okendro stated.
A late report said that negotiating was continuing till the time of filing this report.
The MLA conveyed that a solution can be reached tonight.