Oil tanker drivers and the North East Petroleum Mazdoor Union (NEPMU) have opted to end their strike, paving the way for the resumption of petrol and diesel supply to Meghalaya. The decision emerged after a meeting between the oil tanker drivers, representatives from NEPMU, and officials of the Meghalaya government convened in Nongpoh, Ri-Bhoi district.
Resolution Talks End Strike: Oil Tankers to Resume Supply
The strike was initiated in response to alleged harassment faced by the oil tanker drivers and NEPMU members by the Meghalaya police. The oil tanker drivers, associated with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), had initially planned to halt the supply of petroleum products to Meghalaya from November 29.
In a letter addressed to the Meghalaya Minister of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Affairs, the NEPMU detailed instances of Meghalaya police personnel reportedly torturing oil tanker drivers and helpers in Ri-Bhoi district. The letter stated that, as a protest, they would abstain from taking any load destined for Meghalaya from IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL until the issues were resolved.
The letter highlighted specific incidents, such as the forcible detainment of tankers outside a Dhaba for food at 22 Mile, along with arbitrary cases being registered. This situation led to fear among tanker drivers about entering Meghalaya and accepting loads of petroleum products.
The resolution came after discussions with Meghalaya government officials, providing assurance to the oil tanker drivers and NEPMU. The strike being called off signifies a positive step towards the normal resumption of petrol and diesel supply to Meghalaya, averting potential fuel shortages in the region.
 have opted to end their strike, paving the way for the resumption of petrol and diesel supply to Meghalaya.){kind=link}