Imphal | The Sadar Hills Inland Transporters and Drivers Union (SHITDU) has condemned alleged attacks on truck drivers during the ongoing economic blockade on Manipur’s highways, warning that violence against vehicles carrying essential commodities could endanger lives and further disrupt supplies.

SHITDU president Samson Kipgen said drivers were continuing to operate on the highways despite disruptions and security concerns to ensure the movement of essential goods across the state.

“The pelting of large stones and bricks at drivers is a serious threat to their safety and a challenge to the Constitution of India and the authority of the Government,” Kipgen said in a statement.

The union urged the government and law-enforcement agencies to take immediate action against those allegedly involved in the attacks. It called for the identification and arrest of the perpetrators and appropriate legal proceedings against them.

SHITDU also expressed solidarity with drivers who continue to transport essential commodities despite the prevailing situation, stressing that their safety must be treated as a priority.

The union warned that failure to act against those responsible could expose drivers and other transport workers to further risks and hamper the movement of essential commodities in Manipur.

The statement comes amid an economic blockade called by the United Naga Council (UNC) on highways in the state. The blockade has affected the movement of goods and has been accompanied by allegations of attacks on vehicles.