Tripura Fishermen’s Union Submits 13-Point of Demands to Governor during ‘Raj Bhavan Abhiyan’

In a powerful display of unity and determination, the Tripura Fishermen’s Union recently launched a “Raj Bhavan Abhiyan,” a protest march culminating in the submission of a 13-point charter of demands to the Governor. This significant event on July 24, 2025, underscores the growing discontent among the state’s fishing community, who allege systematic neglect and detrimental policies by the current government. The union’s resolute action highlights a critical struggle for Tripura Fishermen’s Rights, aiming to safeguard traditional livelihoods against what they perceive as an encroaching wave of privatization and exploitation. This article delves into the core issues driving the protest, the specific demands made, and the broader implications for the future of fisheries in Tripura.

The Mounting Crisis for Tripura Fishermen’s Rights

The heart of the protest lies in the union’s strong belief that the state government has consistently overlooked the interests of local fishers, particularly those operating through cooperative societies. Instead, there’s a perceived favoritism towards private entities, threatening the very fabric of the traditional fishing economy. This shift, the union argues, not only jeopardizes the livelihoods of thousands but also undermines the sustainable management of the state’s vital aquatic resources. The call for the restoration of Tripura Fishermen’s Rights to government water bodies is central to their cause, aiming to reverse policies that have dispossessed them of their customary access.

Key Demands: A 13-Point Plan for Tripura Fishermen’s Rights

The 13-point memorandum submitted to the Governor outlines a comprehensive set of demands designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the fishing community and, by extension, the broader populace. These demands can be categorized into several key areas:

• Reclaiming Water Bodies for Cooperatives: The union emphatically calls for the immediate restoration of access to all government water bodies for cooperative fishers. This is a crucial step towards ensuring that the benefits of the fisheries sector primarily accrue to the local community, rather than being siphoned off by private players.
• Halting Privatization of Key Reservoirs: A major point of contention is the alleged privatization of significant reservoirs like Dambur and Rudrasagar Lake. The union demands an immediate halt to these processes, emphasizing their importance as vital resources for both livelihood and ecological balance. Protecting these resources is paramount for preserving Tripura Fishermen’s Rights.
• Implementing Pending Welfare Schemes: Many welfare schemes designed for fishermen are reportedly stalled or not effectively implemented. The union insists on the immediate and proper execution of all such pending schemes to provide much-needed support and relief to the community.
• Addressing Economic Hardships: Beyond the fisheries sector, the union’s demands reflect broader economic concerns affecting the common person. These include:
  • Controlling Rising Prices: A demand for effective measures to control the escalating prices of essential commodities, which disproportionately affect daily wage earners and marginalized communities.
  • Restoring Terminated Teachers: A significant demand is the restoration of services for the 10,323 terminated teachers, highlighting a commitment to educational reform and employment stability.
  • Improving Basic Amenities: Calls for improved power supply and accelerated rural development initiatives underscore the need for better infrastructure and living conditions across the state.

Political Support and the Path Forward for Tripura Fishermen’s Rights

The protest garnered significant support from senior Left leaders, including former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar and Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury. Their presence and vocal criticism of the government’s policies lent considerable weight to the union’s demands. They underscored the critical role of inland fish production in ensuring sustainable livelihoods and food security, directly linking the issue to the broader economic well-being of the state.

The culmination of the protest saw a five-member delegation successfully submitting the memorandum to the Governor at Raj Bhavan. This direct appeal to the state’s highest constitutional authority signifies the union’s hope for meaningful intervention. The outcome of this submission will be closely watched, as it will indicate the government’s willingness to engage with the concerns of the fishing community and address the critical issues impacting Tripura Fishermen’s Rights.

Conclusion:

The “Raj Bhavan Abhiyan” by the Tripura Fishermen’s Union is more than just a protest; it is a powerful assertion of Tripura Fishermen’s Rights and a plea for justice and equitable policies. The battle for control over natural resources and the right to sustainable livelihoods is a recurring theme in many regions, and Tripura is no exception. The union’s demands resonate with the broader struggle for economic justice and environmental protection. The coming weeks will reveal whether their impassioned plea will translate into concrete policy changes, offering a ray of hope for the future of fishing communities in Tripura.