Tripura: 72 hours strike sponsored by disbanded militant outfits likely to be called off

The 72-hours strike called by disbanded militant outfits of Tripura is likely to be called off after a meeting with Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma.

Speaking to the media persons after the meeting, militant leaders asserted that they are considering the proposals advanced by the Government of Tripura and on multiple points they are on the same page. But, in some issues they still have reservations.

“We had constructive discussions during the meeting. We have been requested to avoid calling strikes which definitely have an adverse impact on the normal life of the people. We are not making any decision in haste. I think we should discuss the matter internally once before jumping into any conclusions,” said Prasenjit Debbarma, leader of a faction of the now disbanded NLFT (Nationalist Liberation Front of Tripura).

Stating that a formal announcement on the demands agreed by the government would be made very shortly. “Some of our demands have been agreed by the government. We have been requested by the Minister to withdraw the strike but no decision can be made unilaterally. We have a committee where everything discussed here would be taken up for discussion and after obtaining the views of all leaders, we will be able to say something. In certain points of discussion, we are also in doubt. The onus is on the government to clarify on those points and if we are satisfied there is no point to go on strike. We don't even want to create artificial troubles for the masses,” he pointed out. 

Speaking on the issue, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma said, “In the conference hall of the civil secretariat we have had long deliberations on the strike supposed to commence tomorrow. The leaders of disbanded militant outfits Alendra Debbarma, Parimal Debbarma and Prasenjit Debbarma are here. Senior officials of the tribal welfare and police department are also here. I hope the strike will be called off.” 

Stating that an amicable solution of every problem is possible, the Minister said, “For a long period they had waged an armed rebellion against the state. It is through peaceful deliberations that they could join mainstream life. Peace has been restored in the entire North East because of the relentless and strategic efforts undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha is also driving the state towards new heights of development. He believes in the principles of peace and tranquility and this is why we have invited the leaders for talks.” 

According to Debbarma, maximum demands are being positively considered. “I had a telephonic conversation with the Chief Minister who is in Delhi right now. He is well aware of the situation. I hope the strike will be withdrawn.”

On being asked about the Rs 250 crore settlement package, the Minister said, “The package has been sanctioned. Now, the militant leaders will submit projects through which the funds will be released for their rehabilitation.” 

Meanwhile, sympathisers, members and leaders of militant outfits that got disbanded in 2024 followed by signing of a memorandum of settlement with the Government of Tripura and Government of India have started gathering in selected locations a day before their 72-hour-long strike is set to commence on Friday. 

Former militants belonging to the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) will launch a 72-hour strike in Tripura from June 12, alleging delay in implementation of a rehabilitation package promised under a settlement agreement signed with the Centre and the state government in 2024.

Representatives of the surrendered groups said the agitation was aimed at pressing for implementation of commitments made under the memorandum of settlement signed on September 4, 2024.

As part of the agitation, the former militants have announced road and rail blockades in Khowai and Teliamura on the first day of the strike. 

Addressing a press conference earlier this week, ATTF president Alendra Debbarma, NLFT president Prasenjit Debbarma and other representatives alleged that a Rs 250-crore package earmarked for rehabilitation and development projects for surrendered members had not been implemented despite the passage of considerable time since the signing of the accord.

The leaders said delays in implementation of rehabilitation measures had left many surrendered cadres facing hardship, with limited livelihood opportunities and inadequate access to healthcare facilities.

They further alleged that eight surrendered members had died during the intervening period due to lack of medical support and economic assistance.