ANTAM suspends

SENAPATI, Oct 8: The proposed  indefinite economic blockade called by the All Naga Traders Association, Manipur (ANTAM) over the unchecked extortion and illegal taxation has been suspended after a meeting with the Naga People's Organization (NPO) on Tuesday.
In a press release issued by the association, it  announced the temporary suspension of the proposed indefinite economic blockade on NH-2 which was scheduled to begin from midnight of October 8.
This decision came after intervention by the NPO following an appeal from the Committee of Tribal Unity (COTU) to suspend the bandh in hopes of finding an amicable resolution.
ANTAM decided to call the bandh due to extortion and illegal taxation in Meitei and Kuki areas that continue to remain unchecked.
ANTAM, urged the civil society organizations (CSOs) of the Meitei community and the Manipur State Government to take the matter seriously to prevent further agitation driven by their frustration over the issue.
If the state Govt fails to address the issues of illegal extortion and harassment along the highway (Kanglatongbi to Imphal stretch), ANTAM said it will be left with no choice but to resume the economic blockade without further notice.