Three surrendered militant groups in Tripura have threatened to launch a 72-hour rail and road blockade from September 3, demanding the immediate implementation of commitments under a 2024 tripartite peace agreement. The National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT), NLFT (Parimal Debbarma group) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) signed the agreement with the Centre and Tripura government on September 4, 2024. The groups want the government to provide rehabilitation packages to all surrendered cadres. They have warned that the blockade could continue indefinitely if authorities fail to give them a written assurance.
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Key Facts
- State: Tripura
- Groups involved: NLFT, NLFT (Parimal Debbarma group) and ATTF
- Peace agreement: Signed on September 4, 2024
- Proposed blockade: 72 hours
- Demand: Rehabilitation of all surrendered cadres
- Previous blockade: Held in June over similar demands
- Reported surrendered cadres: More than 1,200
- Rehabilitation packages received: 91, according to the groups
- Rehabilitation project: ₹250 crore
- Funding agency: North Eastern Council (NEC)
Groups Demand Rehabilitation
The three organisations have joined hands under the Joint Movement Committee (JMC) to press the government over rehabilitation commitments.
JMC convener Prasenjit Debbarma said the groups want the authorities to properly rehabilitate all surrendered cadres as promised under the peace agreement.
According to the groups, the government has not yet fulfilled several commitments made under the 2024 accord. Therefore, they have decided to resume their agitation.
72-Hour Blockade Threat
The groups plan to gather at three locations across Tripura to disrupt road and railway connectivity.
Debbarma warned that the organisations could extend the blockade indefinitely if the government fails to provide a written assurance on their demands.
The proposed action could affect the movement of passengers, goods and essential supplies if it disrupts key road and railway routes.
Groups Claim Only 91 Received Benefits
NLFT president Parimal Debbarma claimed that more than 1,200 cadres have surrendered under the peace process.
However, he said only 91 cadres have received rehabilitation packages during the past two years. According to him, many of the remaining surrendered cadres continue to face serious livelihood problems.
The groups are therefore demanding faster implementation of rehabilitation measures and proper support for those who surrendered.
Previous Blockade in June
The three organisations had earlier blocked national highway and railway connectivity in June over the same issue.
They later withdrew the blockade after the government assured them that officials would address their demands.
However, the groups now say they have not received sufficient progress on the commitments. As a result, they have announced another blockade.
₹250 Crore Rehabilitation Project
The groups have also raised concerns about guidelines linked to a ₹250-crore rehabilitation project.
The North Eastern Council is funding the project to support the rehabilitation of surrendered militants. However, the organisations have expressed reservations about some of the guidelines for implementing the scheme.
They want the government to review the concerns and ensure that the rehabilitation programme benefits all eligible surrendered cadres.
Peace Accord Under Pressure
The 2024 tripartite agreement aimed to strengthen peace and stability in Tripura by addressing the rehabilitation and socio-economic concerns of surrendered militants.
However, the latest protest threat indicates that differences remain over the implementation of the agreement.
The proposed blockade could put additional pressure on the Centre and Tripura government to resolve the issue through dialogue and ensure that the commitments under the peace accord move forward.
Q&A
Why are the militant groups threatening a blockade?
They are demanding the implementation of rehabilitation commitments under the 2024 peace agreement.
Which groups are involved?
NLFT, NLFT (Parimal Debbarma group) and ATTF are participating under the Joint Movement Committee.
How long will the proposed blockade last?
The groups have announced a 72-hour rail and road blockade.
How many cadres have reportedly surrendered?
NLFT president Parimal Debbarma claims that more than 1,200 cadres have surrendered.
How many cadres reportedly received rehabilitation packages?
The groups claim that only 91 cadres received rehabilitation packages during the past two years.
What is the value of the rehabilitation project?
The groups have raised concerns over guidelines for a ₹250-crore rehabilitation project funded by the North Eastern Council.
Location Context
Tripura is a strategically important state in Northeast India, sharing an international border with Bangladesh and playing a significant role in regional connectivity. Any disruption to its road and railway networks could affect the movement of people, goods and essential supplies across the state.
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