Shillong, Dec 13: Meghalaya government today informed that there was no immediate problem with the supply of petrol and diesel in the State.
The North East Petroleum Mazdoor Union (NEPMU), has again threatened to stop transporting fuel to Meghalaya citing harassment of its members and their continued detention.
“Let’s not go with rumours or news to just create panic among the people because that is not what is happening now. Of course, there is a problem and discussion is still on and we are trying to resolve it but there is no immediate problem with the supply of petrol and diesel in the State,” said chief minister, Conrad K Sangma .
“I would request that there should be any panic from our side if there is a situation we will inform, but as of now things are under control,” he added.
Recalling the issue, chief minister Conrad K Sangma said, “There was a complaint from the different petrol pumps that the tankers that were coming and bringing the oil into the State pilferage was taking place in that and about 10- 15 percent sometimes even 20 percent of the oil actually as being taken out before it reached the pump hence a huge loss for the petrol pump”.
“Based on that complaint the police in Ri-bhoi conducted a massive operation and they found solid evidence where they were able to pick up some people who were actually involved in this and that was then converted into harassment from the police which is not true. Police was doing its job based on complaint by the petrol pump owners,” he added.
Informing that they have discussed the issue, he said, “The matter is in court. They are requesting for bail and bail is going to be granted only by the court not by the government. So, that process is on and in that process some of the transporters were not satisfied and hence discussions are still going on”.
According to him all efforts are being put in from the government to ensure that public is not at the receiving end and there is no inconvenience to the people.
“I request the public not worry about things if there is a situation that comes in then definitely the government of Meghalaya will inform people accordingly,” he added.