Sir,

The people’s resolution to boycott NH 39 is welcome. If the illegal taxes are not collected from Manipur’s vehicles prices will be cheaper. But some drivers and transporters have been coming along NH 39. If consumer prices are beyond the reach of the common people they have nothing to worry. When passengers are looted they have nothing to lose since the drivers and transporters are never forced to pay compensations.

Our police have also become active in escorting the trucks to Imphal from Mao. These policemen were not seen during blockade. They encourage traffic movement since they are also collecting illegal tax like their Nagaland counterpart. The UCM and others should pull up these a few drivers and truckers who are going against the wishes of the people. Along the NH 39 they get free meals and liquor from the hotels. They also adulterate petrol with kerosene or make two LPG cylinders out of one near some hotels in Assam and Nagaland. They have also business contacts since they have been selling fuel and LPG along the NH 39.
These anti-people drivers and the transporters of some non-Manipuri traders ought to be restrained. If the UCM cannot do this much it will become the laughing stock once again. It must be remembered that its call to boycott NH 39 after the 52 day strike some years ago was ignored by the drivers. If goods are transported along NH 53 prices will come down. Act now, UCM or back out.

Yours faithfully,
Sean Shimray

Source: Hueiyen News Service