Abducted driver Surjit recounts ordeal
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, April 24 2013:
Following the release of the abducted oil tanker driver Surjit at a place in Kohima yesterday, All Manipur Petroleum Tanker Drivers' Union has lifted its 'hands off steering' stir with immediate.
Meanwhile, recounting his ordeal to media at Inter-State Bus Terminus, Khuman Lampak here today, Surjit has disclosed that cadres of NNC (F) were involved in the abduction and he was held captive in connection with non-payment of 'annual tax' of Rs 10,000 to the armed Naga outfit.
Surjit said that his abductors had informed that this was the first warning and all the oil tankers must pay the annual tax to the outfit within the current month.
It may be recalled here that 42-year old Surjit, who hails from Shiva village, Cachar in Assam, but presently staying at Sangakpham Bazar had been abducted at gun point from Kohima on April 21 and he was released at a place in Kohima yesterday afternoon.
President of All Manipur Petroleum Tankers and Drivers Union Y Bhupenchandra Gosh, who was also present on the occasion, expressed gratitude to all for extending support to the strike imposed by the Union over abduction of Surjit.
He also announced that the agitation of the Union has been called off with immediate effect since Surjit has been released safe and sound.
Nonetheless, he reiterated his appeal to both the Central and the State Government for ensuring adequate security among the National Highways.