The State Government has decided to take a tough stance on the agitation sponsored by the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) which began past midnight on Wednesday. AIMTC had announced its plans to intensify the stir to cover all check-posts in the State. Oil and LPG tankers will also be included in the stir.
What has irked the government is the failure of the representatives of the AIMTC to attend a reconciliatory meeting convened by Finance Minister K.M. Mani on March 31 to avert the agitation which, if prolonged, would have a debilitating effect on the State on the eve of the Easter-Vishu festival season. Government sources said the meeting was attended by over 32 officials representing the Commercial Taxes and Motor Vehicles Departments. Representatives from various panchayats were also present.
The Minister announced steps to address the demands put forth by the AIMTC. These included opening 14 counters at the check-posts, as against its demand of 10. The issue that remained was the acquisition of 30 acres of land to set up vehicle parking and other facilities. The Pudussery panchayat, along with the State government, will expand the basic infrastructure to address sanitation and drinking water problems. The meeting also decided to expand the staff strength and install scanners, sources said. Sources said the AIMTC representatives insisted that the Finance Minister and the Chief Minister visit the place and hold conciliatory talks.
