HC hears
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 24 2017:
After hearing submissions of the State DGP, IG AR (S), GOC 57 Mountain Division, CRPF DIG and BSF DIG (Counter Insurgency Operation) in connection with a PIL filed against prolonged imposition of economic blockades on National Highways, a full bench of the High Court of Manipur yesterday passed an order which impleaded IOC as well as CAF&PD Department.
The Court expressed anxiety that no effective measures seemed to have been taken up either by the Central Government or the State Government to mitigate the miseries of the people of Manipur even though the ongoing economic blockade has crossed 80 days.
Nonetheless, IG AR (S), GOC 57 Mountain Division and other military officers who appeared before the Court informed that they have been assisting the State police in every manner to ensure smooth transportation of goods.
The State DGP also conveyed the full bench that the State Government has taken up every possible measure to get the economic blockade lifted, and the State Government has been able to restore smooth passage of traffic on Imphal-Jiribam highway.
He, however, informed that some problems still persist in restoring free flow of traffic along Imphal-Dimapur highway but they would be able to bring it under control provided 72 companies of central forces are deployed by the Central Government for the purpose as discussed in the CHQs meeting held on January 19 .
The full bench was surprised when the CRPF DIG informed that adequate number of lorries carrying diesel and petrol and other commodities are being brought to Imphal.
The Court pointed out that there is apparently scarcity of petrol, diesel and other commodities including food grains at Imphal and other places.
Subsequently, the Court passed an order which impleaded IOC as well as CAF&PD.
While the Advocate general accepted the notice on behalf of the CAF&PD Secretary, ASG S Rupachandra accepted the notice on behalf of the FCI.
The Court further decreed that the notice be issued through special messenger upon the IOC Divisional Manager so that it is served by tomorrow.
The Court later listed the matter for January 25 .