SDTOA, SDTDU to intensify blockade
Source: The Sangai Express
Senapati, February 22 2024:
Citing lack of positive response from the State Government, the Senapati District Truck Owners Association (SDTOA) and Senapati District Truck Drivers Union (SDTDU) have threatened to intensify the blockade along Kangpokpi to Imphal route from February 23 onwards.
According to a statement issued by K Adahrii, spokesperson, SDTOA, service was suspended along the Kangpokpi to Imphal route from February 18 demanding an end to "rampant illegal tax collection", arrest of the perpetrators involved in the assault of five drivers and handymen from Senapati district at Sekmai on February 16 and to stop the Manipur Sand Union from collecting tax from trucks.
SDTOA also questioned why the State Government had failed to take any necessary action despite five days having passed since the start of their agitation/blockade.
On the other hand, a source from District Police revealed that a joint meeting with the SDTOA and SDTDU representatives was held recently in connection with the blockade.
The meeting was called by the District SP and Addl SP in the presence of SDO, DHQ.
During the meeting, SDTOA and SDTDU were requested to reconsider the blockade amidst the State unrest where supply of essential commodities is of great importance.
The district police reportedly forwarded the case to higher authorities as the blockade is happening within the district whereas the February 16 incident happened outside the district.
Meanwhile, briefing media persons, K Adahrii, spokesperson, SDTOA expressed discontent with the Government's lack of action till date though the unfortunate incident happened on February 16 .
Owing to this lack of response, the SDTOA spokesperson has threatened to intensify the blockade from February 23 by prohibiting the passage of any empty truck along the highway till their demands are fulfilled.
The spokesperson also asserted that the State Government should be held responsible for any eventuality that occurs due to the blockade.