Talks on peace agreement will resume post screening: NLFT Ori

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, October 15, 2024

Prasenjit Tripura, a top leader of the banned National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT) (original faction), said on Tuesday that the Indian government has pledged to fully implement the recently signed peace accord within the next four years.

Speaking at a press briefing at the Agartala Press Club, he stated, "The government of India has assured that the memorandum of settlement will be implemented within four years. Four factions participated in the peace talks, which have effectively brought an end to insurgency in Tripura."

He also revealed that a joint working group (JWG) would be established to finalise the remaining details of the agreement. When asked about any further developments, Prasenjit Tripura mentioned, "People are currently engaged in festive celebrations, so we have not pursued the matter actively. However, I believe we will soon receive an official invitation for the formation of the committee. As far as I know, the screening process for the cadres is underway, and once completed, the talks will resume."

Formed in 1989, the NLFT was one of the primary rebel groups in Tripura, alongside the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF), both responsible for numerous killings, extortions, and ambushes on security forces. After 35 years, all remaining factions of both organisations signed a memorandum of settlement on 4th September 2024, bringing them into the mainstream.

The NLFT leader also formally distanced the group from any criminal activities. "From today, we are officially announcing that our group is no longer involved in illegal activities such as extortion or kidnappings. If anyone uses our name for such acts, they should be punished according to the law," he declared.

As part of the peace agreement, surrendered cadres will receive a cash deposit and a monthly allowance for a certain period. A formal arms-laying ceremony took place on 24th September 2024 in Jampuijala, marking a significant step towards lasting peace in the region.