Agartala, September 5, 2026: Tripura’s transport network remained severely disrupted on Saturday as the 72-hour statewide bandh called by surrendered militant groups entered its second day, with protesters blocking roads and railway tracks across several districts.
The protest, organised under the banner of the All Returnees’ Rehabilitation Committee, represents seven surrendered outfits and is based on an 11-point charter of demands, including time-bound implementation of the 2024 tripartite peace accord.
Hundreds of former militants staged sit-ins at Hataikotor, Khowai Chowmuhani and Brigudas Bari, affecting road and rail connectivity. Protesters occupied railway tracks, prompting the Northeast Frontier Railway to cancel, reschedule and short-terminate several trains, including long-distance services.
Vehicular movement along the Assam-Agartala National Highway was also badly affected, leaving commuters stranded and disrupting normal life. Several passengers travelling between districts and towards Agartala were forced to seek limited alternative modes of transport.
Police officials said the situation remained largely peaceful despite the widespread disruption. However, tension was reported at Baramura after police appealed to protesters to allow emergency travellers to pass. Witnesses alleged that some agitators moved towards the police, forcing officers to temporarily retreat.
The protesters have also hardened their position, with a committee representative warning that failure to address their demands could lead to surrendered arms being returned. The representative further said some cadres could consider returning to the jungles, raising concerns over the fragile peace in the state.
On Friday, West Tripura District Magistrate Vishal Kumar held discussions with former rebel leaders on the implementation of the peace accord. He assured them that the government was committed to implementing the agreement in a time-bound manner and had already placed certain proposals before them. Rebel leaders are expected to consult their cadres before responding to the administration.
The key demands include land rights for indigenous communities, withdrawal of pending cases against surrendered militants and full implementation of commitments made under the 2024 peace accord.
The bandh has caused significant hardship for ordinary citizens. With buses, trains and private vehicles affected, transport services have been severely curtailed. Chandrapur ISBT, normally bustling with passengers, witnessed sharply reduced activity as bus and jeep services remained suspended.
