Meghalaya NGO stops tourist vehicles from Assam, 6 arrested

Support independent journalism! Join us: bit.ly/3Rz1uCH
To press the demand for the implementation of Inner Line Permit in Meghalaya the Hynniewtrep National Youth Federation (HNYF) restricted several commercial tourist vehicles with Assam registration from entering Meghalaya on July 26. The incident was reported from Umtyngar junction that leads to Sohra or Dawki. The halt also led to chaos as tourists and drivers were seen helpless and even tried to negotiate with members of the NGO. Several vehicles were even forced to return which hindered the flow of traffic.
Police also swung into action and arrested nearly six of the HNYF members. Anthony Khongsit, Officer in Charge of Sohra Police Station who was present at Umtyngar and was heard telling the members that what they were doing was wrong.
The move by HNYC also attracted condemnation from various corners. Senior journalist Patricia Mukhim through a social media post said, "What happens if airport bound taxis from Meghalaya are stopped at Jorabad?"
While another entrepreneur suggested that Tour Operators from Assam and Individual tourist taxis, should have a tie up with tour operators and local drivers and guides in Meghalaya.
Earlier, tourism minister Paul Lyngdoh had made it clear that there will be no restriction on vehicles coming from other states and that government will find a solution to facilitate better livelihood opportunities for the tourist taxi drivers in the state.
#EastMojo #EastStory #NorthEastIndia
*****
Subscribe: / @eastmojoofficial
*****
Visit our website: www.eastmojo.com/
Facebook: / eastmojo
Twitter: / eastmojo
Instagram: / east.mojo
*****