Agartala, September 20:
Tripura Civil Society has announced a 12-hour statewide bandh on October 13, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., to press for a range of demands concerning indigenous rights, illegal migration, and policy implementation. The announcement was made by Tipra Motha party MLA Ranjit Debbarma at a press conference in Agartala.
The group strongly criticized the state government for its “inaction” on key issues, particularly regarding illegal foreign migrants. Citing Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directives, the civil society alleged that Tripura has failed to detect and deport illegal migrants, unlike other northeastern states such as Assam, which have detention camps and active operations.
The group also slammed the ineffective functioning of the Special Task Force (STF), mandated by the Centre. Instead of a robust force comprising BSF and Assam Rifles personnel, they claimed Tripura’s STF lacks infrastructure, manpower, and clear operational guidelines.
A key demand is the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Tripura, aimed at regulating entry into the state to curb infiltration and generate government revenue.
Delays in executing the Tripartite Tiprasa Accord—signed over 18 months ago to address land, healthcare, food, and political rights of indigenous Tiprasa people—were also highlighted.
Other demands include official recognition of the Roman script for Kokborok language, stricter scrutiny of allegedly fake SC/ST certificates, and stronger protection of genuine indigenous rights.
Organizers emphasized that the strike would be peaceful, with exemptions for essential services such as healthcare, transport, utilities, and specific businesses including pharmacies, fruit shops, and hotels.
The bandh reflects growing dissatisfaction among indigenous communities over what they perceive as systemic neglect by the state government.
