By TC News Desk
Agartala, 3rd September : Truck drivers staged a blockade on the Assam-Agartala National Highway in Chanpur under the Churaibari police station this morning protesting alleged extortion by local clubs during the Durga Puja season. The demonstration brought traffic to a standstill for several hours, causing significant disruption on both sides of the highway.
The protest erupted following reports that, late last night, several clubs in the Kumarghat–Fatikroy region allegedly stopped trucks and demanded large sums of money at gunpoint. Some drivers were reportedly assaulted for refusing to pay the demanded amounts.
Responding to the unrest, Additional Police Officer Pritimoy Chakma from Churaibari station arrived at the scene and managed to restore order. Following assurances from the police, the drivers lifted the blockade but warned of a statewide agitation if such incidents recur.
Local sources identified three clubs- Shakti Sangha in Fatikroy, Young Rising Star Club in the 82 Mile area, and Yuva Sangha Club in Ratabari as being involved in the extortion. Similar allegations have also surfaced from the Churaibari area. Residents claim that such harassment of truck drivers by unruly youth groups affiliated with these clubs has become a recurring issue during the festive season.
Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury had recently issued a public warning stating that extortion would not be tolerated under any circumstances. However, truckers allege that despite the minister’s stance, certain clubs continue to engage in inhumane treatment of drivers, flouting government directives.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for stricter enforcement and protection for transport workers, especially during high-traffic festive periods.
