Minting money at transport terminals

The government has acted firmly on an issue which has a direct bearing on law and order. The extortionists have virtually taken control of all the important points of the communications network and it is no longer a secret that they derive their strength from the godfathers having political clout. And traditionally the ruling party has been the source of such clout.

The government, therefore, had to make a determined effort to dislodge the well-entrenched hooligans making a living out of an illegal business. Cancellation of lease of the terminals was an extreme measure the government had to go for in the knowledge that the musclemen are often deployed by the lessees themselves! The nuisance reached a level that raised some worrying questions about the future of the transportation business.

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The government has also decided to try toll collectors operating in the name of any samity or route committee through speedy trial tribunals.

The nation could not live with a malaise as malignant as extortionism. Illegal toll collection at the terminals has become a routine affair and many people might have begun to believe that it is an integral part of their life. That happened because the law enforcers failed to curb the illegal activities and people were placed entirely at the mercy of the anti-social elements. Their presence in and unlawful domination of this crucial area has had a highly negative impact on trade and commerce.

However, the political will at the top must be reflected through the implementation process which should be fool-proof. The decision to ban toll collection in any form or shape is a step in the right direction. But it will be as good as its implementation.