Agartala, June 8: Representatives of surrendered members of the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) on Monday expressed strong dissatisfaction over the alleged delay in implementing a rehabilitation agreement signed with the Central and State governments. Addressing a press conference at the Agartala Press Club, they announced a 72-hour strike beginning June 12 to press for their demands.
The press conference was attended by ATTF president Kalendra Debbarma, NLFT president Prasenjit Debbarma, along with senior representatives including Parimal Debbarma and Omangal Debbarma.
The leaders alleged that under an agreement signed on September 4, 2024, the Centre and the Tripura government had committed to allocating Rs 250 crore for the rehabilitation and socio-economic development of surrendered militants. However, despite nearly two years having passed since the agreement, they claimed that the promised measures have not been implemented.
According to the representatives, the delay has left many former militants facing severe hardships. They alleged that inadequate access to healthcare, employment opportunities and financial support has pushed many families into distress. The leaders further claimed that eight surrendered members have died due to a lack of proper medical treatment and livelihood support.
The organisations also pointed out that rehabilitation demands of surrendered groups in the past were generally addressed within six months, whereas the current agreement has remained largely unfulfilled. Despite repeatedly approaching concerned government departments and authorities, they said no meaningful progress has been made.
To protest the alleged inaction, surrendered NLFT and ATTF members have called for a 72-hour strike starting June 12. As part of the agitation, they plan to block national highways and railway tracks in the Khowai and Teliamura areas, potentially disrupting transportation and public movement.
The leaders warned that if the government fails to initiate dialogue or take concrete steps towards implementing the agreement within the stipulated time, they would be compelled to intensify their movement in the coming days.
They urged both the Central and State governments to honour the commitments made under the peace accord and ensure the timely rehabilitation and welfare of surrendered members.
