Fresh Controversy Erupts as Tripura CM Says No Pardon for Killers of Kalyanpur Massacre, Even After Surrender
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, December 13, 2025
A fresh political and social controversy has erupted in Tripura following Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha’s strong and unambiguous statement that there will be no pardon for killers involved in the Kalyanpur massacre, even if they had surrendered later or are now living as former militants.
Speaking on Friday at Kalyanpur while paying homage to the martyrs of the infamous Bazar Colony massacre, the Chief Minister recalled the brutal incident that took place 29 years ago in 1996, when 26 innocent people were killed in a militant attack. He assured the people of Kalyanpur that justice would be delivered to the victims of militancy and their families, regardless of how much time has passed.
Dr Saha categorically stated that surrender or coming overground cannot erase crimes of murder and terror. He said that all those involved in the Kalyanpur massacre would be brought under the process of inquiry and would be arrested and punished if found guilty, even if they are now ex-militants.
Making it clear that the government’s approach would not be limited to a single incident, the Chief Minister announced that his government would investigate all major massacres and brutal killings that took place during the period of militancy in Tripura. He asserted that those responsible for planned mass killings and acts of terror would not be spared under any circumstances.
Referring specifically to the Bazar Colony killings, Dr Saha said that the massacre was carried out by militants of the ATTF (All Tripura Tiger Force), in which 26 innocent civilians lost their lives. Although the ATTF was later disbanded following a memorandum of settlement signed with the Government of India and the Government of Tripura in 2024, the Chief Minister underlined that such agreements cannot absolve individuals of heinous crimes committed in the past.
“I cannot assure you that justice will be delivered overnight, but I can assure you with full responsibility that I will put in my best efforts to ensure justice,” Dr Saha said. He added that even today, some individuals involved in acts of terror might be moving freely, but the government is closely watching and will act decisively at the appropriate time.
The Chief Minister further announced that the state government would approach the High Court seeking permission to reopen cases related to genocides and murders committed during the Left Front period. The move, he said, is aimed at ensuring justice for victims who have been waiting for decades and at bringing the perpetrators to account through due legal process.
Launching a sharp attack on militant violence, Dr Saha said, For killers, there is no pardon. Many people came overground after accords were signed, but those whose hands are stained with blood shall not get any forgiveness.
Without naming any political party, the Chief Minister urged leaders and organisations to introspect on the painful history of militancy in Tripura. He remarked that while some forces claim to represent Janajati communities, the truth about who supported violence and who suffered from it must be honestly acknowledged.
Dr Saha concluded by reiterating that his government stands firmly with the families who lost their loved ones during the dark years of militancy. He said peace, justice and accountability are essential to heal the deep wounds left behind by decades of violence in Tripura, even as his remarks have triggered sharp reactions and renewed debate across the state.
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