Members of the All Manipur Petroleum Products Drivers’ Association staged a sit-in at the Malom Oil Depot gate today, demanding stronger security and written government assurances following a stone-pelting incident argeting petroleum tankers on National Highway-37 in the Noney area.
Association member Shamungou said several drivers were injured when stones were allegedly hurled at petroleum tankers near Noney, with some sustaining serious injuries. The incident prompted the drivers to launch a steering-down protest followed by today’s sit-in.
The association demanded a departmental inquiry into the alleged security lapses, questioning why adequate security was not provided before the convoy entered the sensitive Noney Bridge area and why negotiations with protesters were not initiated after the convoy came under attack.
It also questioned the alleged decision of CRPF personnel to allow the tankers to proceed without prior coordination with protesters and their failure to prevent the alleged stone-pelting.
The drivers called for stronger Standard Operating Procedures for petroleum convoy movement along NH-37 during bandhs, blockades and protests. They demanded that revised security arrangements be provided in writing before resuming transportation and backed by a formal government agreement and Gazette notification.
The association also sought unconditional compensation for injured drivers and damaged vehicles, along with assurances against future attacks and illegal taxation.
“Drivers belong to all communities and essential items belong to everyone. Every community should refrain from targeting drivers,” Shamungou said.