Kanchanpur/Agartala, Nov 28, 2022, TRIPURATIMES Desk

Agartala/Kanchanpur Nov 28:  Normal life was hit in Jampui Hill on the first day of the indefinite strike called by the areca nut growers on Monday. The indefinite strike was called protesting against the restrictions imposed by the Assam government on the transportation of areca nut consignment from Tripura at the inter-State border.  

Meantime, the All Tripura Areca nut Growers Union (ATAGU) wrote a letter to Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha seeking his intervention in solving the ongoing impasse at the inter-State border and the plight of areca nut farmers.

In the letter to the Chief Minister, president of ATAGU, Lalrawntlinga Sailo and secretary of the Union, Reuben Ranglong wrote, “The livelihood of areca nut growers of about 7000 households in Tripura has been shattered as the market of the crop has been put off since the start of the restriction imposed by Assam Government on the transit of areca nut notwithstanding the ‘Place of Origin Certificate’ validating authenticity of the crop source. Manifestation of farmers’ apprehension and frustration in the form of National Road blockade is calling for authorities’ intervention”.

In view of the indefinite strike and emerging situation, it has been decided that a delegation of the North district administration would visit Jampui Hill tomorrow and hold talks with the agitating farmers.

“We are hopeful that an effective solution will come up. In that case, we will withdraw the strike. Otherwise, the strike would go on,” agitating Union leaders said.

All eyes are now focused on the outcome of tomorrow’s talks between the District Administration and the leaders of the areca nut growers.

According to the Union leaders, the strike was total in Jampui hill and peaceful today.