Ukhrul: The Joint Action Committee (JAC) representing commercial vehicles operating along the Imphal-Ukhrul road has announced the withdrawal of their indefinite bandh, effective March 11, 2024. This decision comes following assurances from the Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, and the Minister of Transport, Khashim Vashum, to address the issue of illegal tax collection by certain valley-based Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
The JAC had initiated the indefinite bandh on March 6, 2024, in protest against the alleged illegal tax collection by valley-based CSOs, including the Pony Conservation Forum and the All Manipur Welfare Federation. These CSOs were accused of imposing daily illegal taxes on trucks, wingers, DI, and other taxi services plying the Imphal-Ukhrul route under the guise of donations.
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The bandh had paralyzed transportation along the Ukhrul-Imphal road, causing significant inconvenience to commuters traveling between Imphal and Ukhrul.
The JAC, comprising various transport associations including the Ukhrul District Taxi Welfare Association (UDTWA), All Tangkhul Drivers Association, Bus Union, Drivers Union, DI Association, and Truck Association, took this drastic step to protest against what they deemed as extortion by valley civil organizations.
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However, following negotiations and meetings with government officials, including the Minister of Transport and Vice President of Tangkhul Naga Long, the JAC, joined by 44 AC MLA Ram Muivah and 43 AC MLA Leishiyo Keishing has decided to call off the bandh. This decision was made after the government assured them of addressing their grievances regarding illegal tax collection.
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The resolution to end the bandh was reached after a meeting between the JAC representatives and the Ukhrul District Transporters’ Presidents and Secretaries, held on March 11, 2024. The presence of government officials during this meeting facilitated productive discussions, leading to the decision to withdraw the bandh.
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