Amid ongoing unrest, the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) has decided to persist with its indefinite protest, dismissing the state government’s request to suspend the agitation until their detained leaders are released. This appeal was announced during a meeting in Jowai between Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar, who oversees the Transport Department, and the association leaders.
The decision to continue the strike was reached during a late-night meeting on Friday. Government officials had expressed a willingness to negotiate but insisted the MCTODA end its protest first. MCTODA member Lumlang Mawnai stated that the group cannot make decisions without their leaders and will continue the strike until their president, Mosklandar Marngar, and three other leaders-Teibor Marngar, Thrangbor Lyngdoh, and Heibor Pariat-are freed.
These leaders were arrested amid violent confrontations between police and MCTODA members on November 5 at Mawryngkneng, where it was reported that security forces used tear gas, batons, and rubber bullets to disperse protesters blocking trucks carrying cement and clinker.
Earlier, Deputy Chief Minister Dhar told the media that the association had requested the government to intervene for the release of its detained leaders. He reiterated that the state government cannot involve itself in issues concerning transport rates outside Meghalaya’s jurisdiction. The meeting also featured Deputy Commissioners and police officials from East and West Jaintia Hills, along with representatives from the All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association.
The MCTODA has been on strike since October 27, 2025, advocating that cement companies adhere to government-approved transportation rates of ₹9 per kilometer per metric tonne. This protest has involved blocking trucks from Jaintia Hills.
Additionally, the Shillong and Greater Shillong Taxi Drivers’ Union, led by Pynsuk Youroi, visited Mawryngkneng to show solidarity with MCTODA members. Youroi accused the state government of being influenced by cement companies, claiming that ministers act as “servants and labourers of wealthy outsiders.” In support of MCTODA’s protest, Mawryngkneng Sirdar Peter J. Lawai pointed out the exploitation of workers and daily wage earners by those in power. He stated that findings from the Deputy Chief Minister’s meeting indicated failures within the Transport and Police Departments, urging accountability from the government.
Lawai criticized police actions during the November 5 incident, asserting that officers had become aggressors rather than protectors. He supported MCTODA’s decision to maintain the strike until their leaders are released, noting that without leadership, authentic negotiations cannot proceed.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong later urged the truckers to engage in dialogue instead of continuing protests. He mentioned, “We requested them to immediately lift their agitation. We are awaiting their decision.” Regarding the arrests, he added that the law will take its course but emphasized the necessity for the association to allow traffic movement.
The newly-formed MCTODA is demanding uniform transport rates for cement and clinker outside Meghalaya, yet the state government has clarified it cannot dictate rates on behalf of neighboring states. Tensions escalated at Mawryngkneng junction when police fired tear gas shells to break up the protest.
The East Jaintia Hills district administration has declared the MCTODA strike against cement manufacturers unlawful, citing disruptions to traffic and essential supplies along National Highway 6. A statement from the Deputy Commissioner’s office mentioned that despite several meetings held on October 30, 31, and November 3, the MCTODA refused to cease its strike.
The association’s demand for state-approved freight rates to be applied to interstate transportation has been labeled illegal under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The Jaintia Hills Truck Owners Association and the East Jaintia Hills Truck Owners and Transporters Association have distanced themselves from the strike, ensuring continuity in their operations. Reports of harassment against non-participants and damage to vehicles prompted police action to clear blockades and restore order.
The administration confirmed its commitment to dialogue but cautioned that no group would be allowed to break the law or obstruct highways. Engagement with all transport associations and cement manufacturers will continue to find a lawful and just resolution.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2025/11/08/truckers-dismiss-govts-parley-offer/
Category: MEGHALAYA
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Publish Date: 2025-11-08 03:42:00
