Drivers accuse cops of extorting money
Source: Chronicle News Service
Jiribam, April 14 2024:
While alleging that Manipur police and commando personnel have been insisting on payment of certain amount of money from vehicles, especially trucks transporting goods along the National Highway 37, All Jiribam Road Transport Drivers' Union (AJRTDU) has sought attention of the government authorities to look into the matter at the earliest.
Speaking to the media at its Guralthol office, here, Union president N Sadananda wryly remarked that drivers are no longer afraid of robbers or insurgents but feel insecure spotting Maruti Gypsy vehicle of Manipur police along the highway.
While reminding about sacrifices and roles of drivers amid the unrest situation of the state, the president alleged that police personnel often demand money from drivers apart from instances of snatching mobile phones, food and other belongings of the drivers if the monetary demands are not ceded to.
Appealing to the authorities concerned to look into the matter and ensure that the drivers are not harassed by the police, Sadananda cautioned that the drivers might resort to steering off agitation if such unauthorised tax collection continues.
Other office bearers and members of AJRTDU were also present at the media briefing.