Meghalaya Fuel Ban Averted: Petroleum Union Ends Protest

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On Thursday, the North East Petroleum Mazdoor Union made the decision to lift its ban on the transportation of petrol and diesel to Meghalaya, according to Food and Civil Supplies Minister Coming One Ymbon. The union had previously threatened to stop fuel shipments to the state due to the ongoing detention of 12 of its members, who were arrested last month on suspicion of stealing petrol and diesel along the Guwahati-Shillong Highway.

Government's Response

According to Ymbon, the Meghalaya government informed the mazdoor union that it could not intervene in judicial matters. The government clarified during a meeting with union leaders, petroleum association leaders, and government officials that only those transporters involved in illegal oil pilferage were apprehended. The government emphasized that the case is currently before the court and that it cannot interfere in judicial proceedings.

Union's Earlier Stance

The union had previously written to the Meghalaya government, threatening to halt the loading of petroleum products destined for the state until the arrested members were released from custody. However, Food and Civil Supplies secretary Pravin Bakshi reassured that legitimate fuel transporters would not be inconvenienced, while police action against those involved in criminal pilferage of petrol and diesel would continue.

Police Action

A senior police officer confirmed that law enforcement efforts against those engaged in illegal fuel pilferage in Meghalaya would continue. According to the officer, criminals would extract approximately 100 liters of fuel from each tanker and replace it with adulterated contents. This scam was estimated to be worth several crores, considering the daily entry of around 400 tankers into the state, some of which were destined for Tripura, Mizoram, and lower Assam.

Industry Reaction

Kennedy Khyriem, president of the Meghalaya Petrol Pump Owners and Dealers Association, expressed satisfaction with the police action. He highlighted the significant financial implications of the scam, given the large number of tankers entering the state each day.

The lifting of the ban on fuel transportation to Meghalaya by the North East Petroleum Mazdoor Union is a positive development that ensures the uninterrupted supply of essential petroleum products to the state. The government's firm stance on judicial non-interference and its commitment to combating illegal fuel pilferage are crucial steps in maintaining law and order and protecting the interests of legitimate businesses and consumers.