On December 13, petroleum dealers in Manipur will completely shut down petrol pumps due to a bomb threat and concerns for safety. A hand grenade discovered at the Ibudhou Pakhangba Filling Station on December 6, along with a threat letter, has exacerbated fears among station workers. The Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity emphasizes that escalating threats and extortion have made safe operation untenable. They underline the essential service provided by fuel stations, which are crucial for the state’s economy, contributing significant revenue through VAT and employing numerous local workers.
The fraternity pointed out that unlike other businesses, petrol dealers cannot adjust prices to counter illegal demands due to government-fixed pricing, leading to severe financial strain. They state that ongoing threats jeopardize public safety and disrupt government-regulated fuel supply, warning that if conditions don’t improve, they may be forced into an indefinite closure. Sales have plummeted by 50% since the crisis began on May 3, 2023, prompting an urgent appeal for government intervention.
