Meghalaya govt invites JACC for talks

Shillong, Feb 18 (UNI) Meghalaya Transport Minister Manirul Islam Sarkar today invited the agitating Joint Action Coordination Committee (JACC) to discuss regarding their demand of reducing the high security registration plate (HSRP) rates.

The government's invitation came after JACC called for an indefinite road blockade from 1900 to 0600 hours on February 21.

'' The blockade will affect the state including the NH 40 and 44, which is the lifeline of Mizoram, Tripura, Barak Valley of Asom and parts of Manipur, JACC chairman Augustine Shappru told reporters here recently.

Mr Shappru said the JACC have also decided not to attend the meeting unless the government brings down the rates of HSRP.

However, Mr Sarkar said the JACC member have decided to attend the meeting to discuss on the issue.

The JACC, a conglomerate of various transport associations, imposed the blockade after the ruling government failed to decide on the HSRP rates, as suggested by them.

The state government has fixed Rs 2000 for the registration plates, while the JACC suggested Rs 825 for heavy vehicle and Rs 425 and Rs 460 for small and light vehicles respectively.

" We are not against implementation of the HSRP to Meghalaya, but against the high rates fixed by the government, '' Mr Shappru said.

He said the JACC had taken up the matter with the government on several ocasions, but all in vain.

"If the government continues to remain admant on this issue, we have no option but to intensify our stir," Mr Shappru added.

The HSRP was made mandatory in line with the direction of the Centre.

Meanwhile, in view of the proposed indefinite blockade, the administration today clamped section 144 Cr P C prohibiting road blockade on the district.

The order was to ensure smooth flow of traffic in the state and banning use arms and lethal weapons, District Magistrate B Dhar said.

UNI