Agartala, 5th September 2026 : The ongoing agitation by surrendered militants at Baramura intensified dramatically on Saturday, causing severe hardship to commuters and raising serious concerns over public safety. The protesters, who have been blocking the National Highway and railway routes since Friday over alleged non-fulfilment of their demands, reportedly stopped ambulances and prevented patients from proceeding through the blockade.
According to reports from the protest site, two ambulances travelling through the Baramura hills were intercepted on Saturday morning. Patients, including those reportedly heading to GB Hospital for dialysis treatment, were allegedly forced to get down and continue their journey on foot.
The situation became increasingly tense when police personnel attempted to clear bamboo barricades from the road. Protesters allegedly confronted the security forces, breached police cordons and challenged authorities to open fire. Some protesters were also heard warning that the nature of their agitation would change if their demands remained unresolved.
The surrendered militants, who laid down arms and returned to civilian life under agreements signed in 2024, have alleged that assurances made at the time of the accord have not been implemented. They have vowed to continue their protest until their demands are addressed.
The protesters had earlier claimed that emergency vehicles, including ambulances and army vehicles, would be exempted from the blockade. However, Saturday’s incidents have drawn sharp criticism. When questioned, protesters reportedly claimed that the ambulances were stopped because they were moving at high speed through the protest area.
The two-day agitation has already disrupted normal life, leaving numerous vehicles stranded and affecting commuters, workers and passengers. With ordinary citizens bearing the brunt of the blockade, concerns are mounting over the worsening law-and-order situation.
Citizens and observers have called upon the administration to take appropriate measures to restore normal movement and ensure that emergency services are never obstructed during the agitation.
