‘Attack on Drivers Is an Attack on Law,’ Says SHITDU, Demands Arrests Over Highway Violence

The Sadar Hills Inland Transporters and Drivers Union (SHITDU) has strongly condemned the alleged attacks on truck drivers during the ongoing economic blockade imposed by the United Naga Council (UNC) on the highways of Manipur, describing the pelting of vehicles with stones and bricks as a grave threat to the lives of drivers and a direct challenge to the authority of the government.

SHITDU President Samson Kipgen said drivers transporting essential commodities are being exposed to serious risks while performing their duties, and warned that acts of violence against them must not be tolerated.

“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, according to the statement.

The union said drivers continue to risk their lives to ensure the movement of essential commodities for the people despite the prevailing tensions and disruptions on the state's highways.

SHITDU demanded swift and decisive action against those responsible for the alleged attacks, urging the government and law-enforcement agencies to identify and arrest the perpetrators and initiate appropriate legal proceedings.

The union said it stands firmly with drivers who continue to operate amid the prevailing security challenges, stressing that their safety must be treated as a priority.

The union further said violence targeting drivers cannot be justified and called for accountability, warning that failure to act against the perpetrators could further endanger those engaged in transporting essential supplies across the state.

SHITDU statement comes amid the economic blockade called by the UNC on Manipur's highways, with reports of disruptions to the movement of goods and allegations of attacks on vehicles.