Talks Break Down Over Oil Pump Shutdown Issue
Talks between the Manipur Petroleum Dealers’ Fraternity (MPDF) and the state government failed to reach a resolution on Saturday, leading to the continued closure of oil pumps across the valley areas of Manipur.
The meeting was held at the office of the Commissioner (Home) at the Secretariat South Block, Mantripukhri, in the aftermath of a recent incident in which unidentified miscreants detonated a bomb at an oil pump along the Moirang–Kumbi road.
During the discussions, MPDF representatives expressed serious concerns over the safety of petroleum dealers, staff and infrastructure, stating that the prevailing security situation had compelled them to suspend operations. The fraternity placed several key demands before the government, including a firm assurance of adequate security at petrol pumps to prevent any recurrence of such incidents and strict action against those responsible for the attack.
The MPDF also demanded that the government take full responsibility for any future incidents, including bomb blasts, kidnappings or damage to petrol pump infrastructure. In addition, they sought assurances of adequate compensation in the event of injury or loss of life of any dealer or staff member, as well as compensation for the damages caused during the recent attack at Elidas fuel station.
According to MPDF members, the Commissioner (Home) listened to their concerns and informed the delegation that the demands would be placed before the Governor, the Chief Secretary and other concerned authorities. It was also conveyed that another round of talks would be held after receiving their response. However, in the absence of a clear decision or assurance, the MPDF decided to continue the closure of oil pumps.
Meanwhile, the shutdown has led to widespread roadside sale of petrol in bottles across valley areas, with reports of fuel being sold at prices as high as Rs 200 per litre, causing inconvenience and hardship to the general public.
