Assam: Silchar truck drivers begin indefinite protest over alleged harassment in Mizoram

The Silchar Truck Drivers' Association has launched an indefinite sit-in protest at Lailapur Bypass in Cachar district, demanding an end to what it described as harassment and restrictions faced by Assam-based truck operators while transporting goods to Mizoram.

The protest began at 6 pm on Sunday, August 30, with truck drivers and vehicle owners joining the agitation. The association has demanded that the movement of goods-laden trucks to Mizoram be halted until its grievances are addressed.

According to the association, Assam-based truck drivers face various forms of obstruction and harassment while transporting goods to Mizoram.

The organisation also alleged that restrictions have been imposed on the transportation of certain goods and that trucks carrying sand from Assam to Mizoram have been prevented from operating.

The association further alleged that Assam-based truck operators are being pressured to transport goods using local Mizoram trucks instead.

It claimed that the alleged restrictions and harassment have adversely affected the livelihoods of truck drivers and vehicle owners from Assam and disrupted their transportation business.

The association had earlier called for a "steering chhodo" (stop-driving) agitation over the issue.

The protesters said their demands include ensuring the rights and safety of Assam-based truck drivers and providing equal opportunities for inter-state transportation operators.

The association has said the sit-in at Lailapur Bypass will continue indefinitely until its demands are met.

The agitation could affect the movement of goods between Assam and Mizoram if it continues, particularly along the Lailapur route.