Photo Courtesy: nenews
Imphal: The Manipur Truck Owners’ Welfare Association (MTOWA) has petitioned Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to launch a specialized welfare program for heavy vehicle operators. The request follows the May 29, 2026, killing of Food Corporation of India driver Nitish Kumar, who died during an armed attack in the Ukhrul district.
The association submitted a memorandum urging the government to provide significant financial security for workers who risk their lives on the state’s national highways. Proposed measures include an ex gratia payment of Rs 20 lakh for the families of drivers killed on duty, lifetime pensions for those left permanently disabled, and government job opportunities for the next of kin of the deceased.
MTOWA president Hijam Ranjit noted that transport workers have faced years of threats, economic blockades, and violence while keeping essential goods moving across the region. He stated, "Truck drivers have continued to transport essential goods across Manipur despite facing years of violence, insecurity and threats on the highways."
Fearing that the ongoing lack of institutional support will discourage drivers from working, the organization is demanding a dedicated welfare fund. In tandem with these requests, transport workers have staged protests by halting operations and parking their vehicles. They are currently calling for improved security protocols, such as mandatory armed escorts along National Highway 37 and NH 202.
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