AGARTALA | SEPTEMBER 3, 2026: In a significant political development, representatives of various surrendered insurgent groups—including former cadres of the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF)—have declared a 72-hour statewide shutdown (Tripura Bandh) beginning Friday, September 4, 2026.
Addressing a press conference at the Agartala Press Club on Thursday, organizational convenor Jiban Joy Reang warned that if the state government fails to take concrete steps toward fulfilling their long-pending rehabilitation and policy demands during the 72-hour period, the outfits will launch an indefinite state-wide blockade.
Key Grievances & Charges Against Administration
- Lack of Progress on Demands: Union leaders expressed deep frustration over the lack of administrative execution regarding ex-militant rehabilitation schemes, socio-economic packages, and cadre screening processes despite repeated formal talks.
- Ministerial Inefficacy Alleged: Reang highlighted that while multiple discussions were held with Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma, departmental ministers lack the executive authority to resolve core policy issues.
- Demand for Chief Minister’s Intervention: The leadership bluntly stated, “The key to the lock is not with the ministers, it is with the Chief Minister,” appealing directly to Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha to step in and deliver decisive action.
- Escalation Warning: The outfits asserted that they are shifting away from mere verbal assurances to active agitation, cautioning that any law-and-order situation or public disruption arising from the shutdown will be the sole responsibility of the ruling BJP-led state government.
High Alert Across State Administration
With the 72-hour strike looming across highway corridors, rail routes, and district centers starting Friday morning, administrative authorities and state security forces have been put on high alert to maintain public order and essential services across Tripura.
Press Conference Summary
- Event: Announcement of 72-Hour Statewide Shutdown (Tripura Bandh).
- Organizers: Surrendered Militant Outfits (NLFT/ATTF Ex-Cadres Union).
- Key Speaker: Jiban Joy Reang (Convenor).
- Venue: Agartala Press Club.
- Schedule: 72-Hour Bandh starting Friday, September 4, 2026 (followed by potential indefinite blockade).
- Core Demand: Direct intervention by CM Dr. Manik Saha to fulfill rehabilitation and policy commitments.
