Concerns Arise Over Mandatory Fees for Vehicles in Dima Hasao
Controversy Surrounds Vehicle Fees in Dima Hasao
Drivers have raised issues regarding the voluntary nature of the payment, as a fixed fee of Rs 300 is being requested from each vehicle.
HAFLONG, Sept 14: A recent receipt labeling a payment as a 'donation' has raised eyebrows after drivers and vehicle owners reported that Rs 300 is being charged from every vehicle traveling along the Langting-Mandardisa route in Dima Hasao district.
This collection, allegedly conducted by the Dima Hasao Driver Association, which was established in 2025, involves issuing receipts that refer to the payment as a donation. However, drivers have expressed skepticism about the voluntary nature of this fee, pointing out that a fixed amount of Rs 300 is being enforced for all vehicles.
“If this is truly a voluntary donation, then why is there a set fee of Rs 300 for each vehicle?” questioned one driver, who preferred to remain anonymous. Vehicle owners have also voiced legal concerns regarding the authority of a private association to halt vehicles and collect fees on a public or national highway.
This situation has led to demands for clarification from the Dima Hasao district administration and law enforcement regarding the legitimacy of this fee collection. Drivers and vehicle owners are urging the district commissioner and senior police officials to disclose any orders, regulations, or permissions that validate this practice, and to initiate an investigation if no such authorization exists.
The local driving community is now looking forward to a definitive response from district officials on this matter.