Agartala, Tripura | January 7, 2026: In a significant move that could escalate regional tensions, three prominent organizations representing surrendered militants—the Joint Action Committee (JAC), Joint Action Rehabilitation Committee (JARC), and Deprived Returnees Movement Committee (DRMC)—held a joint press conference at the Agartala Press Club today. The groups voiced deep frustration over the state government’s failure to implement long-standing rehabilitation and welfare packages.
Broken Promises and “Breach of Trust”
During the briefing, leaders of the three organizations accused the state administration of backtracking on commitments made to those who laid down arms to return to mainstream society. The primary bone of contention involves the Board Rehabilitation Package (BRP), with leaders claiming that out of a promised $₹45$ crore package from 2007, approximately $₹23$ crore remains unpaid.
The leaders expressed particular anger toward Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma. They claimed that despite a scheduled meeting today, the Minister was absent, which they termed a “gross disregard” for their plight.
Key demands highlighted in the conference include:
- Financial Clearance: Immediate release of the remaining $₹23$ crore for the rehabilitation of former guerrillas.
- Rubber Mission Support: Restoration of the financial aid for rubber plantations and fencing to the previous level of $₹16,800$ per year.
- Withdrawal of Cases: Dropping of all pending legal and police cases against surrendered members as per original surrender agreements.
- Basic Amenities: Implementation of housing schemes under PMAY and educational support for their children.
Ultimatum: January 26 Deadline
The JAC, JARC, and DRMC have issued a stern ultimatum to the Tripura government. They warned that if the Tribal Welfare Minister does not engage in a meaningful dialogue and provide concrete solutions by January 26, 2026, the organizations will launch a “massive statewide agitation.”
This follows a recent four-hour blockade of the Assam-Agartala National Highway in December, which paralyzed traffic and served as a precursor to their current demands. “We chose the path of peace, but the government’s indifference is pushing us toward the path of protest,” a spokesperson for the committee stated.
Why This Matters
The reintegration of surrendered militants is a sensitive issue in Tripura’s socio-political landscape. Failure to fulfill these rehabilitation promises could lead to renewed instability in tribal-dominated areas. As of now, the state government has not issued a formal response to the ultimatum.
