Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 12:
In connection with the unfolding situation following cessation of LPG transport to the State after abduction of two LPG bulk tanker drivers from Khatkhati, Assam allegedly by cadres of the Kuki Revolutionary Army (KRA), which is under Suspension of Operation truce with Assam Rifles, a high level meeting with security officials was held today with Chief Minister O Ibobi in the chair at his office chamber.
The meeting was attended by FCS Minister Y Erabot, Chief Secretary Jarnail Singh, Principal Secretary (Home) PBO Warjari, Principal Secretary (FCS) P Saratchandra, DGP Y Joykumar, AR officers and officials of IOC.
During the meeting, the security officials were instructed to take up all necessary measures to ensure arrival of the required quantity of LPG in the State.
Speaking to The Sangai Express after the meeting, FCS Minister Y Erabot informed that the two drivers were abducted for a ransom amount of Rs 10 lakhs each.
For every LPG carrier transporting LPG to Manipur from Assam, the KRA has been demanding Rs 5 lakhs each, he disclosed.
As the Army and Assam Rifles have signed SoO agreement with the KRA, the Chief Minister instructed the AR officials to secure safe release of the abducted drivers without any condition, conveyed Erabot.
Taking serious note of the hardships being endured by drivers from Manipur at Khatkhati, the State Government has been planning to set up a task force, there with approval from the Assam Government, he informed.
Saying that LPG necessary for three days' use is left at the Sekmai LPG Bottling Plant, the FCS Minister conveyed that the security and IOC officials have been given stringent instruction to ensure steady transportation of filled LPG cylinders to the State.
Considering the plight of the drivers, the officials have also been directed to escort back all the LPG carriers and bulk tankers currently stranded outside the State, he conveyed.
Currently, onlyabout 60 percent of the LPG required for the State is brought from outside the State in LPG cylinders while the remaining quantity is filled in the Sekmai Bottling Plant.
Despite the accusing finger pointed to them, the KRA has clarified that they are not invoked in the abduction of drivers.