Statewide Bandh in Tripura Today: Tiprasa Civil Society Stages Protests Against Illegal Infiltration
Agartala, Oct 23: Widespread picketing and protests today are underway as the Tiprasa Civil Society Organization, comprising supporters of Tipra Motha party and its frontal organizations are observing a 24-hour statewide bandh to demand an end to illegal infiltration and highlight several other pressing issues.
Protesters, waving the national flag, raised slogans such as “Protect Our Land, Protect Our Future” as they blocked roads and disrupted traffic in support of their demands.
The agitation, held under the leadership of senior Tipra Motha leader and MLA Ranjit Debbarma, saw demonstrations across 45 locations, including Agartala’s North Gate and various parts of the state.
The bandh, which commenced at 5 a.m., was marked by road blockades and the burning of tyres, particularly at Lembuchhara along the Agartala–Khowai 108(B) National Highway.
ADC Executive Member Runiel Debbarma visited the protest site at Lembuchhara and extended his support to the movement.
Speaking to reporters, he emphasized the need to address the long-standing issue of infiltration that affects indigenous communities.
Tipra Motha leader and MLA Ranjit Debbarma, while addressing the media, elaborated on the objectives of the movement, accusing the state government of ignoring Centre’s directives to push back illegal infiltrators to their original locations.
He said, indigenous people are losing their jobs, lands as well as administrative rights because of rampant illegal migration from Bangladesh. Debbarma referred to government initiatives taken in Assam, New Delhi and other states to identify and deport the illegal immigrants and asked why similar steps have not been taken in Tripura.
He demanded inclusion of BSF and Assam Rifles personnel in the Special Team cinstituted to identify Bangladeshi nationals illegally residing in Tripura.
He reiterated that the agitation aimed to safeguard the land, identity, and future of the indigenous people of Tripura.
The MLA asserted the picketing will be held peacefully. He said, “We have directed our activists to remain peaceful. We also sought co-operation from the police in carrying out our peaceful protest.”
