Harassed drivers reluctant to continue service in Manipur
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 18 2025: Drivers supplying goods to Imphal have expressed reluctance to continue their services due to alleged frequent harassment by Police, Traffic and Motor Vehicle personnel along National Highway-2 (Imphal-Dimapur road) from Sekmai to Imphal.

Earlier, Manipur's supplies came from warehouses in Guwahati, but now essential goods are directly transported to Imphal from various States, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, West Bengal, and Assam.

Some drivers alleged that Police, Traffic, and Motor Vehicle personnel frequently detain them at various points along the Sekmai-Imphal stretch, imposing fines even if they possess all the documents.

The drivers alleged that personnel demand bribes of Rs 200 to Rs 500, and if refused, they issue challans with fines as high as Rs 5,000 without explanation.

They claimed that their vehicles are often confiscated if they don't pay, alleging that receipts are often not issued for the fines paid.

Claiming that Police and Traffic personnel often ridicule non-local drivers for not understanding Manipuri, they asked if it is necessary for them to know the language to provide services in Manipur.

The drivers further alleged that such personnel frequently detain them, demanding Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 without explanation at multiple points, and that the lack of receipts for fines paid makes it hard for vehicle owners to believe their claims.

They contrasted their experience on the Sekmai-Imphal stretch with other States, stating they haven't faced similar treatment elsewhere.

How will the drivers work under such circumstances, they asked.

Stating that the offices of the drivers' union at Sekmai and Mantripukhri have been removed by the police, they added that they now don't have a platform to air their grievances.

The drivers also claimed that the Police, Traffic and Motor Vehicle personnel often find fault even if they possess all documents to extort money.

They further claimed that entering Imphal is a nightmare, as Police, Traffic, and Motor Vehicle personnel chase them, leaving no time to rest.

The drivers appealed to the authorities to intervene, stating they're not treated similarly in other States as they are in Manipur.

The drivers warned that they might stop serving Manipur if the harassment continues, stating they'd rather not come to the State at all.

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