Tripura government launches urgent rescue operation to trace and safely return youths stranded in Arunachal Pradesh after travelling for work. Police, welfare departments, and ministers coordinate inter-state action amid growing family anxiety.
The Tripura government has launched an urgent inter-state rescue operation after several youths from the state were reported stranded and distressed in remote areas of Arunachal Pradesh, where they had travelled in search of employment. The situation came to light following emotional complaints from worried families, triggering swift administrative, police, and political intervention.
The affected youths reportedly hail from the Kalishasan and Rangrung tea garden areas under Kailashahar subdivision in Unakoti district. Family members approached the Kailashahar police station on Tuesday, stating that communication with their sons and relatives had either broken down completely or indicated severe hardship after reaching Arunachal Pradesh for work opportunities.
Following the complaints, the Kailashahar police immediately registered a formal case, numbered KLS/PS/69/2025, and alerted senior district authorities. Late on Tuesday night, officials from the district administration, along with teams from the Social Welfare and Social Education Department, Childline, and the District Child Protection Unit, visited the affected families to gather detailed information and offer reassurance.
Officials confirmed that the primary objective was to establish contact with the stranded youths, verify their condition, and assess whether any minors were involved. The presence of child protection agencies underscored the seriousness of the situation, as early reports suggested that some of those missing could be under the age of 18.
A breakthrough came on Wednesday when Tapas Malakar, Officer-in-Charge of Kailashahar police station, successfully established direct communication with one of the stranded youths, identified as Nayan Sabar. Speaking from a remote location in Arunachal Pradesh, Sabar confirmed that at least 15 youths from Tripura are currently together. However, uncertainty remains regarding several others whose families have reported them missing.
According to police sources, Sabar informed authorities that the group is facing significant difficulties, including lack of proper shelter, financial distress, and limited access to transportation. The exact circumstances under which they reached Arunachal Pradesh and the nature of the employment promised to them are now under investigation.
The matter has drawn the attention of senior political leadership in Tripura. Social Welfare and Social Education Minister and Chandipur MLA Tinku Roy has personally intervened, reaching out to the Arunachal Pradesh Minister for Labour and Employment to seek immediate cooperation. Despite being in New Delhi at the time, Roy has remained in constant communication with both state administrations to ensure that the rescue operation proceeds without delay.
Administrative sources in Tripura confirmed that coordination has also been established with the Belong police station in Arunachal Pradesh. Local police there have already spoken with Nayan Sabar and are attempting to locate the group’s exact position. Given the difficult terrain and remoteness of the area, officials acknowledge that the rescue operation presents logistical challenges.
To expedite the process, Tripura police are preparing to send a special team from Kailashahar to Arunachal Pradesh. The team is expected to work closely with local authorities to trace all the missing youths, verify their identities, and ensure their safe return. Special attention will be given to any minors involved, with child protection protocols to be strictly followed.
Back in Tripura, anxiety continues to grip the families of the stranded youths. Many of them come from economically vulnerable backgrounds and had sent their sons away in the hope of improving household incomes. The lack of reliable information over the past several days has only deepened their fear and uncertainty.
The unfolding situation has once again highlighted the risks faced by migrant workers from northeastern states, particularly youths who travel long distances based on informal job assurances. Experts point out that the absence of verified recruitment channels often leaves such workers exposed to exploitation, abandonment, and dangerous living conditions.
| Also Read: West Tripura Takes Oath to Achieve TB-Free District Goal |
State officials have reiterated that the government is committed to bringing every affected individual back safely. They have also urged families not to panic and assured them that constant monitoring and coordination are underway at multiple levels.
As the rescue mission progresses, the incident is likely to prompt renewed discussions on migrant worker safety, inter-state coordination, and the need for stronger regulatory mechanisms to protect vulnerable job seekers from Tripura and other northeastern states.
