Senapati CSOs continue road block stir
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 05 2024: Over 200 trucks remained stranded at different locations along the Imphal-Dimapur (National Highway-2) road as restrictions on movement of commercial vehicles imposed by CSOs of Senapati district entered the fourth day on Tuesday.

CSOs of Senapati district particularly Naga People's Organisation (NPO), Senapati District Women Association and Senapati District Students' Association (SDSA) imposed the restriction since November 2 to protest frequent harassment of Nagas and increasing extortion.

As per sources, at least 113 loaded trucks including some oil tankers are currently stranded between Mao gate and Maram in Senapati district and more than 80 stranded between Mao gate and Khuzama gate in Nagaland.

According to report filed by our Senapati district correspondent, despite four days of protest led by frontline organisations since November 2, there has been no official response to address the ongoing issues.

These organisations have been demanding that the community involved engage in resolving the matter.

Speaking to the media, NPO spokesperson Ng Chunthan explained that the agitation is a response to continuous harassment and extortion affecting residents along the highway.

According to the NPO, it receives daily complaints from the public, indicating widespread frustration and a breaking point in their tolerance.

The situation has been further aggravated by recent incidents, including an attempted murder and armed extortion of two individuals from Senapati district, as well as the seizure of goods belonging to a Naga woman by the Kukis at CoTU Gate.

Chunthan emphasised that while the NPO's actions are not aimed at any specific community, they expect the relevant civil society organisations (CSOs) to step forward, ensure accountability, and bring those responsible to justice as per law of the land and customary law.

Until these conditions are met, he affirmed, the agitation will continue.

Currently, more than 200 trucks remain stranded at the border areas of Mao Gate and Tadubi.

Earlier on Tuesday, NPO representatives visited the stranded vehicles to inform drivers and helpers that the agitation was launched due to the continuous harassment and extortion along the highway and to safeguard commuters.

Drivers and their assistants expressed appreciation for the efforts, noting that incidents of extortion have escalated significantly since the start of the current crisis last year.

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