News Reporter
In a significant milestone for Tripura, around 584 insurgents from the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) and the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF) have surrendered their arms, marking a new era of peace and stability in the state. The ceremony, held at the Headquarters of the 7th Battalion of the Tripura State Rifles in Jampuijala, Sepahijala District, was a symbolic step towards ending decades of insurgency and violence in the region.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, since taking office, has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the Northeast in India's overall development strategy, stating that the nation's growth cannot be achieved without the progress of the region. The Northeast, once a hub of insurgency and unrest, is now experiencing a remarkable transformation, with the signing of 12 peace accords, three of which involved Tripura. The recent accord between the Indian government, the Tripura government, and these insurgent groups is a testament to the success of this peace process.
Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha, who presided over the arms-laying ceremony, highlighted the significance of peace in driving development. "Without peace, there can be no progress," he said. "Today, we can proudly say that Tripura is free from terrorism. The state and central governments have introduced numerous development schemes for the benefit of the Janajati people, ensuring that no one is left behind."
Dr. Saha, who also serves as Tripura's Home Minister, extended a warm welcome to those who had once lived in difficult conditions and have now chosen to join the mainstream. He emphasized that issues cannot be resolved through hatred or violence, but through dialogue and understanding.
The peace accord, which was brokered by the governments of India and Tripura, saw the insurgent cadres renouncing violence and committing to a peaceful future. Tripura DGP Amitabh Ranjan, DGP (Intelligence) Anurag, and Chief Secretary JK Sinha, among other officials, were present at the event, underscoring the importance of the moment.
With the successful reintegration of these former insurgents, Tripura continues to set an example for peacebuilding and development in the Northeast, moving closer to fulfilling its potential as a prosperous and peaceful state.