IMPHAL, July 4(IFP): A fresh surprise attack on vehicles plying along the NH-53 in between Tupul and Awangkhul, under Nungba Sub-Division, at about 6.30pm yesterday long after the economic blockade by ANSAM is over surprised and angered transporters.
One truck driver was injured in the attack and in response at the apathy of the Assam Rifles camp present nearby, the Manipur Driver Welfare Forum today demanded replacement of Central forces with state forces.
The injured driver is identified as one A. Sanayai, 48, s/o (L) Yaima of Thoubal Haokha, who sustained severe injuries on his face.
The attacked occurred around 6:30 in the evening in between an Assam Rifle post and Peace Land village few kilometers away from Noney bazaar.
Sources said that a convoy of freight trucks heading towards Guwahati came under heavy attack of stone pelted from several directions.
The trucks as well as the injured victim are now taking shelter near Assam where the victim was given first aids.
The victim has in the meanwhile arrived in Imphal today and was admitted at RIMS.
While speaking to media persons in this connection, M. Tomba, secretary of the forum, condemned the attack strongly questioning the motive behind the attack for no bandh or blockade exist currently along the highways.
Despite the presence of central forces such attack has been continuing along the highways especially in between Tupul and Awangkhul and asserted that they have lost their faith in Central forces.
Moreover he also expressed apprehension that if such act were allowed to continue along the highway it may prove fatal for some unfortunate driver someday.
While recalling similar attacks on vehicles along the route Tomba said that some vans were recently chased by miscreants but were allegedly ignored by CRPF personnel when their help was sought and subsequently the miscreants imposed tax upon them.
Further he also drew the attention of the concerned authority to improve the conditions of the roads.
In the meantime, volunteers of the Transporters and Drivers' Council (TDC), a Maruti van was intercepted at Chingmeirong area while trying to sneak out from Manipur along the NH-39.
The van bore registration number MN01W-2743.
The TDC imposed restrictions on vehicles from plying along the NH-39, until their charters of demands are fulfilled which includes deploying of highway protection force, to ensure freedom from illegal taxes and harassments etc.
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