Photo Courtesy: India Today Group
Agartala: Two groups representing surrendered militants in Tripura scrapped their planned blockade of national highways and rail lines. The protest was set for August 13. The Joint Action Rehabilitation Committee and the Joint Action Committee announced the cancellation on Monday.
These groups represent a portion of the state's former militants. They initially declared the blockade on August 6 to force action on rehabilitation and other unresolved demands. Convener Jibanjoy Reang confirmed the decision to stand down after state officials reached out. "We have decided to postpone the blockade of the national highway and railway slated for August 13 following a request from the government to address our grievances," Reang said.
Tripura Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma met with the militants on August 5 to review the situation. The parties initially planned a meeting with Chief Minister Manik Saha for August 10. That session hit a snag. The Chief Minister is currently in Delhi for official business. Reang noted the state government promised a meeting immediately once the Chief Minister returns.
The militants want a clear path for their future. They agreed to drop the protest to ensure public convenience during Independence Day. "Respecting the state government's request and the assurance provided, we have decided to call off the national highway and railway blockade to give relief to the people ahead of Independence Day celebrations," Reang said.
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