Manipur blockade to cause food crisis

A highway blockade enforced by groups demanding repeal of AFPSA in Manipur paralyzed traffic, fuelling fears of food shortage in future.

A 16-day highway blockade enforced by groups demanding the repeal of the anti-terror law Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFPSA) in Manipur paralyzed traffic on Monday, fuelling fears of a food shortage in the region.

HT Image

"So far, all incoming and outgoing vehicles kept off the roads on the first day of the highway blockade programme," a senior police official said.

Apunba Lup, the apex body of 32 groups demanding the withdrawal of the controversial AFSPA from Manipur gave the call for the road blockade. "Almost all transport unions and travel agents have decided to voluntarily support us and so there is no need to forcibly enforce the highway blockade call. The strike is total," said Apunba Lup leader Shiva Dutta.

The highway strike is part of a renewed campaign demanding scrapping of the law that gives sweeping powers to the military to shoot on sight and arrest anybody without a warrant.

"We are making security arrangements to escort vehicles on the highway. No untoward incidents have been reported so far from any part of the state," Manipur's additional police chief J.C. Dabas said.