Tripura government finally provided financial assistance to the surrendered militants who surrendered before chief minister Biplab Deb and other top-level officials on August 13 last year.

On August 13, 2019, a total of 88 National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT-SD) cadres surrendered in presence of the Tripura chief minister.

An agreement was also signed between the NLFT leaders, state government and the central government, according to which the government announced an economic package and the rehabilitation of the former militants.

On Thursday, Tripura chief minister Deb handed over cheque worth Rs 1 lakh each to the 136 former militants during a programme.

The programme was organised at Rabindra Bhavan in Agartala.

Speaking on the occasion, chief minister Deb lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He said, “Earlier Northeast was badly affected by the insurgency problem.”

But after Modi came to power, the insurgency problem has been narrowed down in the region, he said.

Deb said: “Prime Minister Narendra Modi understands the problems of Northeast India and he has been trying to develop the region and its people. Earlier, Northeast was neglected.”

The Tripura CM said, “The problem of extremism has gone from here and we should maintain the peace and development here.”

He claimed, “The indigenous people have also expressed their faith on the BJP-IPFT and that’s why in last Assembly election, the BJP-IPFT won 18 seats reserved for ST out of 20.”

Deb wished that the financial assistance would help the former rebels, who have joined the mainstream, to do something good.

Tripura minister NC Debbarma, acting DGP Rajib Singh and other high officials of police and administration were also present at the programme.