Manipur government has warned of prosecution without further notice against individuals, organisations and groups involved in unlawful road blockades, highway obstructions and other activities disrupting public movement across the state.
In an order issued on August 28 by Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Home) N. Ashok Kumar and made public on September 3, the government directed police and civil authorities to take immediate legal action against those organising, instigating, supporting or participating in such disruptions.
The order comes amid continuing blockades and road obstructions along national highways, disrupting the movement of essential commodities and contributing to shortages and price escalation in several parts of the state.
The government said it had received reports and credible inputs about bandhs, blockades and other unlawful activities on national highways and public roads by various organisations, associations, groups and individuals.
It warned that forcibly restricting movement, damaging public property or engaging in acts likely to trigger a breach of peace would invite action under relevant laws.
Deputy commissioners, police authorities and other enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure uninterrupted movement of vehicles on national highways and public roads and initiate prompt action against violators.
The government said the disruptions threaten public order, citizen safety, economic activity and the free movement of people and goods.