Imphal, June 15 2010: The people of Manipur are facing immense hardship owing to the prolonged economic blockade imposed on National Highway 39 and NH 53 by Naga students and this matter would be taken up in the Supreme Court if the state government of Manipur and the central government do not resolve the matter at the earliest, warned P Tomcha, Convenor, All India Lawyers Union (AILU).

P Tomcha mentioned that the state has been facing the scarcity of petroleum products and essentials commodities since the imposition of economic blockade on the National nighways in Manipur sector by All Naga Students' Association Manipur, (ANSAM) and the United Naga Council (UNC) opposing the recently concluded Autonomous District Council elections held by the state government under the 3rd amendment of the District Council Act.

The already highly charged situation was further fueled when the proposed visit of Th.Muivah, leader of National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isaac Muivah (NSCN-IM) to Manipur cropped up, added P.Tomcha.

Stating that the national highways fall under the purview of central government, P.Tomcha stated that the people of the state should be aware of such rules and laws in such situation.

It is also the duty of the state government to protect the national highways, added P.Tomcha.

He then said that the transporters should consult the concerned officials of central government and follow the right channel.