A fresh protest by surrendered members of two former militant groups disrupted transport links in Tripura on Friday. The protesters blocked the Assam-Agartala National Highway at Champaknagar and a railway track at Brigudas. They demanded action on seven issues linked to rehabilitation, financial assistance and other government commitments.
Key Takeaways:
- Surrendered ATTF and NLFT members blocked the Assam-Agartala National Highway and a railway track on Friday.
- Protesters raised seven demands over rehabilitation, financial assistance and other promised benefits.
- They demanded direct talks with Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha and the Tribal Welfare Department before ending the blockade.
Surrendered members of the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) and National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) launched a fresh agitation in Tripura on Friday. They blocked key road and rail routes over seven demands.
The protesters gathered at Champaknagar and blocked the Assam-Agartala National Highway. Another group blocked a railway track in the Brigudas area.
The simultaneous protests raised concerns over traffic movement and train services in the affected areas.
Protest Over Rehabilitation Promises
The protesters said the Central and state governments made several commitments after their surrender. These included rehabilitation packages, financial assistance and other benefits.
However, they claimed that most of the commitments remain unfulfilled.
The protesters also alleged that they have approached officials at different administrative levels several times. According to them, repeated representations have not produced a permanent solution.
They said the latest blockade followed years of uncertainty over the implementation of the promised measures.
Protesters Demand Direct Government Talks
The surrendered members have taken a firm position on ending the blockade. They said administrative assurances alone will not be enough this time.
The protesters want Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha and the Director of the Tribal Welfare Department to visit the protest site. They have demanded direct discussions on their seven-point charter.
They said they will consider withdrawing the blockade only after receiving specific assurances on the implementation of their demands.
Earlier Protests Over Same Demands
The surrendered ATTF and NLFT members have organised similar protests in Champaknagar and other parts of Tripura in the past.
During earlier agitations, the administration assured them that their demands would receive due consideration. The protesters, however, alleged that concrete action did not follow.
They said the lack of progress forced them to resume their agitation.
Administration Steps Up Monitoring
The road and railway blockades have created concerns for commuters, passengers and vehicle operators. The administration has increased monitoring around the affected locations.
Officials are also holding discussions with the protesters. The immediate objective is to resolve the dispute and restore normal road and rail movement.
The protesters, meanwhile, have warned that the agitation will continue until their seven demands receive a satisfactory response.
