IMPHAL, July 10 � The indefinite bandh on Nagaland sector of the National Highway 2 (formerly NH 39) particularly Kohima-Mao section since Friday last has severely affected the movement of Manipur-bound vehicles.
The Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) had called the bandh in protest against the authority�s alleged failure in recovering a stolen vehicle and arresting the vehicles lifters of June 21 incident.
Manipur opposition leader L Ibomcha of Keishamthong raised a call attention motion in the Assembly today. Responding to the motion, Manipur Home Minister Gaikhangam informed the House that the government is trying its best to resolve the matter by holding talks with the Nagaland Government.
With the arrest of the said involved persons besides recovering the said vehicles, he added, �I hope there would be an amicable solution soon.� Two brothers, both residents of Wangoi Santipur Mayai Leikai were arrested on June 24 while the stolen Tata DI vehicle and a Maruti car used by the criminals have been recovered by the Manipur police.
Around 25 trucks have reportedly crossed the Mao area, said the Home Minister. Nine vehicles have also left Imphal for Kohima today.
But reports said the SAYO volunteers have intensified their agitation soon after the bandh was reimposed on the Nagaland route. SAYO leaders on July 2 had reportedly urged the Manipur Government to recover the stolen vehicle and produce the four accused within three days.
Oil pumps closed: Petrol outlets in and around Imphal remained closed after unidentified ultras reportedly set on fire two oil pumps located at Singjamei Thokchom Leikai and Kakwa in Imphal West district late last night.
Protesting the move of the unidentified persons, womenfolk staged sit-in demonstrations in front of the oil pumps today.
PTI adds: The petrol pumps had been forced by militants to close down since July 5. The attackers stole into the premises when the guards were asleep and set it on fire. The blaze was later doused by fire brigade personnel, the officials said.
The pump owners said a militant faction of Kangleipak Communist Party had demanded Rs 10 lakh from each pump.
