Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The Manipur Truck Owners’ Welfare Association (MTOWA) has urged Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh to introduce a dedicated welfare scheme for heavy vehicle drivers operating on the state’s national highways. The appeal comes in the wake of the killing of FCI truck driver Nitish Kumar, who lost his life in an armed attack at TM Kasom in Ukhrul district on May 29, 2026.
In its representation to the state government, MTOWA proposed a comprehensive support package for drivers and their families. The association has sought a lifelong pension for drivers who suffer permanent disabilities while on duty, a minimum ex gratia payment of Rs 20 lakh to the families of drivers killed in the line of duty, government employment for one eligible family member of the deceased and compensation for injured drivers based on the extent of their injuries.
MTOWA president Hijam Ranjit said truck drivers have endured decades of insecurity, threats, and violence while ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities across the state. He noted that transport workers have often been left without adequate support during periods of conflict and economic blockades despite playing a critical role in Manipur‘s economy.
Warning that the absence of institutional support could discourage drivers from operating on the state’s highways, the association has also called for the creation of a dedicated welfare fund to provide financial security and protection to transport workers and their families.
The demand comes amid ongoing protests by truckers, who have parked their vehicles and suspended operations while seeking stronger security arrangements, including armed escorts along key routes such as National Highway-37 and NH-202.