The ongoing economic blockade by the Moran community in Assam’s Tinsukia district has entered its fourth day, paralyzing supply chains, stalling energy transport, and plunging local businesses into deep uncertainty.
Organized by the All Moran Students’ Union (AMSU) and six other allied groups, the blockade has left hundreds of fuel and goods-laden trucks stranded along National Highways 37 and 315A.
What’s at Stake: From Fuel to Food Supplies
Disrupted Logistics and Supply Chains
The blockade has effectively halted commercial movement, stranding trucks carrying fuel, food grains, LPG, and other essentials. While tea consignments and some essentials are allowed to pass, checkpoints set up by protestors have turned highways into near-permanent parking lots.
“We are already witnessing sharp spikes in prices of vegetables, groceries, and fuel in the Tinsukia-Dibrugarh belt,” said a local trader.
Business and Industrial Fallout
Oil India Limited (OIL), which operates across this oil-rich belt, has reported severe operational challenges. Coal logistics have also been affected, causing ripple effects across dependent industries.
Why the Protest? Community Demands and Political Promises
The protest stems from long-standing demands by the Moran community for:
- Scheduled Tribe (ST) status
- Inclusion of Moran Autonomous Council under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution
These demands were reportedly promised during the 2014 general elections but have since seen little progress. The blockade is being seen as a last-resort pressure tactic.
AMSU leaders say, “Our demands are constitutional and non-violent. We were pushed into this blockade because of continued neglect.”
Impact on Local Communities
Soaring Prices and Stockouts
Residents in Tinsukia and adjoining districts are experiencing shortages of fuel and medical supplies. Petrol pumps are limiting purchases, and many daily wage workers are now unable to travel or work due to high fuel costs.
Small Businesses Struggle
Retailers and wholesalers are being forced to operate with minimal inventory, leading to increased costs, lower sales, and employee layoffs. Transportation-dependent businesses, including tea and rubber exporters, are warning of revenue losses running into crores.
Government’s Response: Talks, But No Breakthrough
The Assam state government has opened channels of communication with AMSU and protest leaders, but no resolution has emerged.
Security Measures Tightened
Police have increased their presence along blockade zones, but no forceful removal has been attempted, signaling the government’s intent to keep the situation peaceful. However, public patience is wearing thin.
Regional and National Repercussions
Given Tinsukia’s strategic importance as a gateway for fuel and resource movement in Northeast India, the prolonged blockade is not just a local issue. States like Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, which depend on these supply lines, are also reporting disruptions.
National bodies, including chambers of commerce and transport unions, are urging the Centre to intervene, as the deadlock threatens broader economic stability.
What Needs to Happen Next?
Urgent intervention is needed from both state and central governments to ensure:
- A peaceful resolution with the Moran community
- Temporary easing of the blockade for essential goods
- A formal roadmap addressing the ST and Sixth Schedule demands
Residents, civic leaders, and industry stakeholders must raise public awareness, document shortages, and push for transparent dialogue between the protestors and authorities.
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