Tripura CM Dr Manik Saha said rules and regulations cannot be ignored while providing benefits under militant accords. Responding to strike and blockade calls by surrendered militant groups, he assured relief through proper procedures, urged peaceful dialogue, and emphasized consultation, scrutiny, and adherence to the accord’s provisions.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Saturday reiterated that established rules and regulations cannot be overlooked while extending benefits to surrendered militants under existing peace accords, emphasizing that every proposal must undergo proper scrutiny before implementation.
Responding to recent strike and blockade calls issued by different factions of surrendered militant groups, the Chief Minister said the state government remains committed to addressing genuine concerns but cannot bypass legal and administrative procedures.
“There are rules and regulations that have to be followed before taking any concrete steps. There is a specific process through which identification of individuals is carried out, and that process cannot be ignored while ascertaining identities,” Dr Saha said.
He explained that while certain provisions may allow limited relaxations under specific circumstances, all actions must remain within the framework of the law and the provisions laid down in the accord. According to him, government officials have already been instructed to explore all possible avenues to provide maximum relief to eligible beneficiaries.
“The processes have certain windows through which relaxations can be considered. I have directed the officials to ensure that the best possible relief can be provided wherever permissible. At the same time, the system is functioning according to established procedures. The accord itself contains several rules and regulations,” the Chief Minister stated.
Dr Saha’s remarks come amid growing unrest among some surrendered militant groups that have recently organized strikes and blockades, demanding implementation of various commitments and benefits. Another faction has reportedly announced a fresh strike on June 24, adding to the concerns of the administration.
Recalling the earlier strike call, the Chief Minister said he had personally intervened despite being away in New Delhi at the time. He said assurances were given that all grievances would be heard after his return to the state.
“When the first strike was called, I was in Delhi. I intervened and assured them that upon my return, all their issues would receive a patient hearing. Subsequently, I met them and instructed officials to examine their concerns and provide the best possible relief within the permissible framework,” he said.
The Chief Minister also pointed out that communication becomes increasingly difficult when surrendered militants are divided into multiple factions, fronts, and organizations. According to him, the existence of several groups often creates practical challenges for the government in maintaining continuous dialogue with every faction whenever new protest programs are announced.
“Now I have heard that another group has called a strike. It is not possible to interact individually with every group each time such decisions are made. However, government officials remain in contact with them and continue discussions,” he said.
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Appealing for peace and restraint, Dr Saha urged all stakeholders not to forget the difficult period of insurgency that the state had experienced in the past. He emphasized that dialogue and consultation remain the most effective means of resolving disputes and ensuring lasting peace.
“We should not forget our dark days. I request every outfit and organization to participate in talks and resolve their issues through consultation and deliberation. Maintaining peace and stability is in the interest of everyone,” the Chief Minister added.
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The state government has maintained that it remains open to discussions with all concerned groups while ensuring that commitments under the accord are implemented in accordance with legal provisions, administrative procedures, and established norms.
