BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 22nd March 2025: The Tipra Indigenous Students’ Forum (TISF) has launched an indefinite blockade of the national highway across the state, demanding the adoption of Roman script for the Kokborok language. The blockade, which began on Friday, has caused widespread disruption and chaos in various parts of the state.
Party workers have continued the blockade despite an agreement signed with the central government by Tipra Motha Party supremo and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarman. “We are committed to our demand for the Roman script in Kokborok and this blockade is a reflection of our resolve,” said a TISF leader.
The impact of the blockade has been severe, with the general public facing significant hardships. Exam candidates and ordinary passengers have struggled to reach their destinations, while long queues of goods vehicles have formed in Teliamura. “We are stuck here for hours, and the perishable goods in our trucks are at risk,” lamented a driver caught in the blockade.
Ambulances have also been unable to pass through, putting patients in danger. “This situation is life-threatening for those in need of urgent medical care,” said a local resident.
Today, the blockade continued in areas such as Baramura and Bishramganj, exacerbating the suffering of passengers and office workers. Bus drivers from Sonamura in Bishramganj have been unable to travel towards Agartala, leaving many stranded. Police efforts to remove the blockade in Bishramganj led to heated confrontations, but the road was eventually cleared.
Meanwhile, a 45-kilometer-long queue of goods vehicles has formed near Teliamura, with many carrying perishable items. “The disruption is unbearable, and we don’t know when we’ll be able to move,” said another driver.
The blockade has become a disaster for the people of Tripura, disrupting daily activities and creating frustration among residents. “The administration’s inaction is deeply disappointing,” said a local shopkeeper.
