Manipur Petrol Dealers Threaten Shutdown Over Extortion Issues

Petrol pump operators in Manipur are on the brink of halting operations due to persistent extortion threats. The Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity has expressed disappointment over the government's inaction following a memorandum submitted to the governor. They face a critical situation where compliance with illegal demands risks legal repercussions, while refusal leads to threats against their safety. With a deadline set for December 28, the dealers are urging immediate government intervention to ensure their security and the sustainability of their businesses amidst ongoing turmoil in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 22, 2025, 14:02 IST

Petrol Dealers in Manipur Express Urgency

Imphal, Dec 22: Petrol station operators in Manipur have announced that they may halt their services if the government does not address ongoing extortion demands by the end of this week.

The Manipur Petroleum Dealers Fraternity (MPDF) expressed their frustration over the lack of decisive action from the government regarding their safety, despite having submitted a memorandum to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on December 10.

In their memorandum, the MPDF requested the governor's immediate intervention to combat what they termed as increasing threats to their lives and properties.

"The memorandum presented to the Hon'ble Governor of Manipur on 10/12/2025 concerning ongoing bomb threats, extortion, and unreasonable illegal demands has regrettably not led to any effective response from the State authorities thus far," the statement released on Sunday noted.

Given the current situation, petrol dealers feel they have no choice but to cease operations if no action is taken by December 28.

The MPDF highlighted that petrol dealers are required to sell fuel at government-sanctioned prices, and unlike other essential goods, they cannot simply raise prices to cover illegal demands.

"Currently, petrol dealers are in a dire predicament where the viability of their businesses is nearly unattainable. Compliance with illegal demands puts them at risk of legal repercussions from State authorities, including the potential application of the National Security Act (NSA). Conversely, refusing to comply has led to bomb threats and direct threats to their safety," they stated.

Since February, Manipur has been under President's Rule following the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh amid backlash over his administration's response to ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023.

Various militant groups have reportedly exploited the ongoing turmoil to target local businesses, including petrol stations, for extortion.

In related developments, numerous members of these groups have been apprehended in connection with extortion activities.