There is an increase in prices in most of the regions of North Eastern state. Apart from LPG cylinders and petrol, items like rice, potatoes, onions and eggs are also being sold at much higher rates than the government fixed prices. Earlier, the price of a 50 kg sack of rice was Rs 900, but now it has increased to Rs 1800. The price of potato and onion has also increased by Rs 20 to Rs 30. In general, the prices of all imported essentials have gone up. LPG cylinders are sold in the black market for Rs.1800. 170 per liter of petrol is charged in many places in Imphal West district.
Public says why the price of eggs has gone up. A box containing 30 eggs used to cost Rs 180, but now it is Rs 300. People say that if the trucks carrying essential goods had not been escorted by security forces, the price hike would have been even worse. Before the security forces arrived, even potatoes were being sold at Rs 100 per kg.
The conflict is between the Meitei community and tribals in the hilly districts of Manipur. Traffic was blocked after the clash broke out. Truck traffic to Imphal Valley has been suspended.
This is the reason why prices of essential commodities have skyrocketed. The movement of trucks through NH 37 resumed on May 15. Security forces are providing assistance to bring traffic back to normal. Even in districts that were not affected by the violence between Meitei and Kuki communities, prices of goods rose sharply.
