ITAHARI: Claiming that their profession was in peril due to imposition of illegal taxes and extortion terror unleashed by various groups, tractor entrepreneurs of the Koshi Zone demanded that the government make their profession secure.

Most of the speakers at the 13th general assembly of Koshi Tractor Association that kicked off here in Itahari today aired their concern as their profession had been marred by the prevalent insecurity.

Jaya Bahadur Karki, chairman, Koshi Tractor Association, informed that their profession was in danger as different clubs, organisations, underground outfits, among others, were yet to stop asking donation with the entrepreneurs.

They also claimed that the government indifference was hugely responsible for the increased attacks on the entrepreneurs involved in the sector. They even said that the profession was in a sort of "economic recession" due to the government apathy.

According to Karki, some of his colleagues already left the profession due to the impending danger on life as they are frequently targeted for donation.

Presenting a report at the programme, secretary of the association Shivaraj Dahal said that though the donation drive was reduced in comparison to the insurgency period, security situation was deteriorating. He also emphasised for the scientific implementation of the taxes.

The participants warned of halting their services if the government was not serious to provide security to the entrepreneurs. During the programme, it was announced that the association opened Dudhkoshi Saving and Credit Cooperative Limited.