Agartala, June 12: A 72-hour road and rail blockade called by returnees of the banned militant outfits All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) and National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) began across Tripura from 6 a.m. on Friday, intensifying pressure on the government to fulfil promises made under a rehabilitation agreement signed more than two years ago.
The protest has brought renewed focus on the long-pending demands of former militants, who allege that several commitments made under the tripartite rehabilitation accord signed in New Delhi remain unfulfilled. The returnees have demanded proper implementation of rehabilitation measures, financial assistance, sustainable livelihood opportunities and other benefits promised under the agreement.
Despite heightened security arrangements across the state, protesters blocked a section of the national highway at Sadhupara and disrupted railway movement at Brighudaspara, both located under Champaknagar in West Tripura district. The blockade affected transportation and caused inconvenience to commuters and travellers.
The agitation was launched even after two rounds of discussions between representatives of the state government and leaders of the returnees. According to officials, the meetings were held in a positive atmosphere and efforts were made to resolve the issues through dialogue. However, the two sides failed to reach a final settlement, prompting the protesters to proceed with the blockade.
Leaders of the returnees said they were left with no option but to intensify their agitation, alleging that repeated assurances from the authorities had not translated into concrete action on the ground. They maintained that many former militants continue to face difficulties due to the lack of adequate rehabilitation and livelihood support.
The blockade is scheduled to continue for 72 hours, during which protesters plan to obstruct road and rail traffic to press for early implementation of the rehabilitation package. Security personnel have been deployed in sensitive areas to maintain law and order and ensure that the situation does not escalate.
Meanwhile, the leadership of the returnees has warned that the agitation could be extended indefinitely if their demands are not addressed within the stipulated period. The state government has yet to announce any fresh initiative to break the deadlock and restore normal transport services.
