The state government has decided to replace diesel auto-rickshaws with battery-powered ones. On Saturday, several diesel auto drivers staged a sit-in protest near the Manipur University gate.
Their demand from the government was for reconsidering its decision as most of them come from poor families. Such a step is akin to an infringement on the right to livelihood of the people who eke out their living from such diesel based vehicles.
Last Wednesday, chief minister N Biren Singh was addressing a meeting on traffic regulations. There, he suggested for introducing e-rickshaws or battery-based vehicles for public transportation in and around the Khwairamband Bazaar area. However, irate drivers were saying that this decision will amount to taking away the source of livelihood of many families. A similar protest was staged on Friday at RIMS Road. Protesters have demanded the roll back over this decision and government should rethink about its stance.

Follow Manipuri News at twitter for more news updates – https://twitter.com/ManipuriNews