More than 40 organizations in Assam have threatened to start an indefinite blockade of vehicles from Meghalaya moving through Assam, if business as usual was not allowed for residents of Assam.
The organizations, which include NGOs, businessmen, auto associations among others have been expressing their anger over the fact that despite vehicles from Meghalaya being able to move freely through their state, the same has not been reciprocated by the state of Meghalaya, leading to many businesses being badly affected.
The restrictions imposed in travel through Meghalaya have been made due to the state’s fight with the Covid–19 pandemic and despite the Ministry Home Affairs (MHA) asking states to allow all vehicular and people movement without hindrance.
The organizations had earlier communicated their issues with the various district administrations in Assam linked to the state of Meghalaya with sources saying that high level talks are likely on the matter soon. The organizations have given a 72 hour deadline which will end on Monday before the start of their indefinite blockade.
Earlier on Friday, frenetic meetings were held between organizations of both states to try and diffuse the situation.
“They have asked for a 3 day time to sort matters out and we agreed to the request. We hope the situation is sorted out quickly so that life can resume normally,” said a member from ARSU from Goalpara district.
“When vehicles from Meghalaya are allowed to operate freely and carry passengers through our state, why are there restrictions for us in moving through the state of Meghalaya? We have had a very hard time in paying our dues and EMIs for the vehicle loans we took. Most passengers that we used to ferry were from Meghalaya but now while their vehicles are allowed free entry, we are stopped,” said an anguished member of the Dudhnoi vehicle association.
Apparently a representation on the matter was made Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, seeking an easing of restrictions through the NGH deputy commissioner, by the Assam associations.
