Tripura witnessed major transport disruption on June 12 as surrendered NLFT and ATTF cadres launched a 72-hour rail-road blockade over peace accord demands. The protest affected highways and train services, while commuters across Agartala, Khowai, and West Tripura expressed frustration over the impact on daily life.
Quick Glance
- NLFT and ATTF surrendered cadres launched a 72-hour blockade in Tripura.
- Rail and road services were disrupted across West Tripura and Khowai districts.
- Passengers criticised the shutdown, citing losses in work, travel, and daily activities.
- Protesters demanded implementation of the 2024 peace settlement rehabilitation commitments.
Agartala: Transport services across several parts of Tripura faced serious disruption on Friday after surrendered cadres of the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) started a 72-hour rail and road blockade.
The protest affected normal movement on the Assam-Agartala National Highway and railway routes in West Tripura and Khowai districts. The former militants launched the agitation demanding immediate implementation of rehabilitation and development commitments mentioned in the 2024 peace settlement agreement.
The agreement was signed between the Government of India, the Government of Tripura, and the disbanded militant organisations to support rehabilitation of surrendered cadres and strengthen peace in the state.
Road and Rail Connectivity Hit Across Tripura
The blockade created major problems for commuters and passengers. Protesters gathered at multiple locations and stopped vehicle movement.
A large number of surrendered militants blocked the Assam-Agartala National Highway near Sadhupara Bridge. The disruption affected hundreds of travellers using the route for daily work and essential activities.
Rail services also faced interruptions. The Agartala-Sikandrabad train had to return after being stopped near Brighudasbari.
Officials said the blockade was organised at three major points:
| Location | Area | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Subalsingh | Mohanpur subdivision | Road movement disrupted |
| Sadhupara Bridge | Jirania subdivision | Assam-Agartala highway blocked |
| Brighudasbari | West Tripura district | Railway service affected |
Security forces were deployed in the affected areas to maintain law and order and monitor the situation.
Public Faces Hardship as Transport Shutdown Continues
The transport shutdown quickly affected ordinary people across Tripura. Passengers at different locations expressed anger and frustration over the disruption.
Many commuters said the blockade had created serious difficulties for people travelling for work, medical treatment, education, and other urgent needs.
Speaking to reporters, passengers questioned the impact of repeated shutdowns on common people. They said ordinary citizens suffer the most whenever transport services stop.
“Before announcing a shutdown, warnings are issued through press conferences. But when common people face problems, there is no immediate solution. Leaders speak about development, but people want to know where that development is when they are suffering,” a commuter said.
Another passenger said government employees and leaders continue receiving their regular income, while daily wage earners and ordinary travellers face financial losses.
“People are losing valuable time and income. Many do not know how they will reach their destinations or complete their work,” the passenger added.
The disruption was reported in areas including Khowai, Teliamura, and Kailashahar. Several passengers were left stranded as regular vehicle services remained suspended.
Agartala Bus Stand Witnesses Passenger Problems
The impact of the shutdown was also visible at the Radhanagar Bus Stand in Agartala.
Some small vehicles were operating only up to Mohanpur. However, services towards Kailashahar through Khowai and Manik Bhandar remained suspended.
Passengers said the transport crisis had affected both personal and professional responsibilities. Many people travelling for jobs, medical emergencies, and family needs struggled to arrange alternative transport.
Talks With Government Fail to End Protest
The blockade continued despite a meeting between Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma and representatives of surrendered militant groups at the Civil Secretariat.
The discussion focused on rehabilitation commitments under the peace settlement agreement. Government representatives and former militant leaders discussed the pending issues but failed to reach a final settlement.
Leaders of the former militant groups said some government proposals were acceptable. However, they demanded clarification on certain points before considering withdrawal of the protest.
Prasenjit Debbarma said the discussions were constructive. He stated that the group would hold internal discussions before taking a final decision.
Rs 250 Crore Package Remains Main Demand
The protesters have mainly raised concerns over delays in implementing the Rs 250 crore rehabilitation package.
demanding rehabilitation package
The former militants claimed that several surrendered cadres were facing financial difficulties due to delays in receiving support. They also highlighted issues related to employment opportunities and healthcare assistance.
Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma said the rehabilitation package has already been approved. He stated that funds would be released after project proposals are submitted by former militant representatives.
The minister expressed hope that dialogue would resolve the issue and prevent further disruption of public services.
Tripura Peace Agreement: Looking Back
The NLFT and ATTF were formally disbanded in 2024 after signing a peace settlement with the Centre and the Tripura government.
The agreement aimed to bring former insurgents into mainstream society through rehabilitation support, development initiatives, and peace-building measures.
The ongoing blockade reflects the demand of surrendered cadres for faster execution of commitments under the accord, while the government and protest leaders continue efforts to find a solution.