SHILLONG: The All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) has voiced concerns over reports of unauthorised check gates re-emerging along the major highways in the state.
George B Lyngdoh, the party’s vice-president, bringing attention to the matter, said that unauthorised check gates were dismantled but “some frivolous elements have set up some gates again”.
Expressing suspicion that these activities might have “the backing of powerful groups or individuals”, Lyngdoh said that it is the duty of the district administration to shut these gates.
“It is the duty of the deputy commissioner to ensure frequent patrolling and prevent these illegal collections.” He was quoted as saying by the local press.
However, Lyngdoh clarified that he doesn’t possess any photographic evidence to validate these claims but based his concerns on complaints received. “The deputy commissioner should delve deeper to ascertain the ground realities,” he urged.
Illegal toll collections from truckers at these unauthorised check gates have been a longstanding issue. Efforts to curb this malpractice have not been entirely successful, leading to disruptions in trade and increasing transportation costs, which indirectly impact the local population, he further stressed.
The AITC, however, isn’t the only political party to raise the issue of illegal check gates in the state. Recently, the United Democratic Party (UDP) too voiced concerns over these illicit toll gates, leading to a heated exchange with the KHADC’s chief executive member and National People’s Party leader, PN Syiem.
Syiem alleged that individuals recently arrested for illicit toll collections at the forest check gate in Mawlai Mawiong were associated with the UDP.
Reacting sharply, the UDP challenged Syiem to provide evidence supporting his claims about their members’ involvement. Additionally, they have demanded a retraction from Syiem if he fails to substantiate his allegations.
