Shillong, Aug 21: The blockade imposed by certain groups in Assam on vehicular movement from and to Meghalaya worsened today, with transporters deciding to stop goods trucks from entering this state.
Meghalaya is almost wholly dependent on trucks passing through Assam for supplies of food, fuel, daily needs and other goods.
The blockade began after violence during a Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) rally on Wednesday resulted in damage to several vehicles, with those bearing Assam number plates specifically targetted. Injuries were also reported to those in the vehicles. On Thursday protestors in Assam refused entry of Meghalaya registered vehicles into their state. A tit-for-tat response was also then initiated by groups in Meghalaya.
Yesterday there were encouraging words from the Chief Ministers of Meghalaya and Assam, Conrad K Sangma and Himanta Biswa Sarma respectively.
The two states decided on each appointing a minister to lead discussions on a resolution of the problem. From the Meghalaya side this is Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar and from Assam it is Atul Bora, Minister of Border Protection and Development.
However, even on Friday the blockade of vehicles from both sides continued. At around 2pm, the association of drivers from Assam staged a sit-in in the middle of the road at Khanapara and stopped vehicles from passing in either direction, including vehicles carrying food supplies and other essential goods.
These Assam drivers are demanding compensation for the Assam vehicles that were damaged during Wednesday’s violent rally. Meanwhile, those from Meghalaya have said that they will not allow the Assam vehicles to pass unless the Assam side lifts its blockade.
The North East Petroleum Mazdoor Union today announced an indefinite cessation of loading and unloading of products for Meghalaya till peace is restored.
The Assam Police has opened helpline numbers – 9181014888 and 03612381511 – for people from the state who are stranded in Meghalaya or facing difficulties in movement.
The Mazdoor Union claimed that drivers ferrying oil and gas routinely face harassment in Meghalaya, but their complaints to police fall on deaf ears.
“The Union members will be in cessation of work with regards to Meghalaya till normalcy is restored there,” it said in a statement.
A cab-operator at a sit-in at Jorabat alleged: “We will continue this protest till a permanent solution is found. It is a recurring issue of vehicles and drivers from Assam facing harassment in Meghalaya.”
Another protester blamed the Assam government for “not taking proactive steps” to address their concerns.
“No official has spoken to us and tried to find out what is happening,” he said. (with PTI inputs)
