The Tripura Guerrilla Returnees' Demand Committee has announced an indefinite blockade of the Assam-Agartala National Highway and railway routes from June 5 in support of its five-point charter of demands. The announcement was made during a press conference held on Saturday at Kumari Madhuti Rupashree Abasan in Agartala.
Leaders of the committee alleged that an agitation programme scheduled earlier had been suspended on February 20 following assurances from Minister Bikash Debbarma. However, they claimed that despite the passage of several months, no effective steps have been taken to address their demands.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the government's response, the leaders said they have decided to launch a larger movement to press for the fulfilment of their demands. Among their key demands are the immediate withdrawal of all pending cases against former guerrillas and government assistance for establishing rubber plantations to support their livelihoods. The committee has also raised several other issues concerning the welfare and rehabilitation of former guerrilla members.
During the press conference, the leaders criticized Minister Bikash Debbarma, alleging that the assurances given by him have remained unfulfilled despite repeated appeals and a considerable lapse of time.
The committee warned that unless concrete action is taken to address their demands, the indefinite blockade of both road and rail routes will commence on June 5 and continue until their grievances are resolved.