“Truck drivers from Bengal allege Abhishek tax”: CM Himanta
Himanta Biswa Sarma has alleged that truck drivers from West Bengal are being forced to pay an unofficial levy near Siliguri, referring to it as the “Abhishek Tax.” He claimed that individuals linked to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) are responsible for the practice.
According to Sarma, transporters carrying goods to and from Assam are being compelled to make these payments, leading to higher transportation costs. He cautioned that the added expense is ultimately passed on to consumers, contributing to rising prices across the Northeast.
The Chief Minister said that several truck drivers operating along the crucial trade route connecting Assam to the rest of India via Siliguri—commonly known as the “Chicken’s Neck” corridor—have raised these concerns. He noted that if such practices are indeed occurring, they could disrupt trade and place additional financial strain on both businesses and consumers.
Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has stated that it would take steps to end the alleged collection if it comes to power in West Bengal. The party has promised relief for transporters and smoother movement of goods.
The issue is expected to further escalate political tensions between the BJP and TMC and is likely to feature prominently in regional political debates.
