Decades of Displacement: The Bru Community’s Fight for Dignity and Belonging

The Bru settlement issue is a long-standing crisis that has spanned over 35 years, rooted in the violent conflict between the Mizo and Bru communities of Mizoram in the late 1980s. This article delves into the complex history of the issue, the prolonged suffering and displacement of the Bru people, and the role of government bodies and civil society organizations, including the United Tiprasa Forum (UTF), in supporting the Bru community.

Historical Background of the Bru Displacement Crisis

The Bru, also known as Reang, are an indigenous tribe primarily residing in Mizoram, Tripura, and Assam. In the late 1980s, tensions erupted between the Mizo and Bru communities in Mizoram, resulting in violent conflicts. The Bru, feeling threatened and unsafe in Mizoram, were forced to flee to neighboring Tripura, seeking refuge across the border.

Since their displacement, the Bru community has been living in temporary camps along the Tripura-Mizoram border, relying on government-provided rations and support from both the Central and Tripura State governments. However, despite multiple rounds of negotiations and attempts to repatriate them to Mizoram, the crisis remained unresolved for decades. Though various offers and proposals were extended to the Bru community, challenges in implementing a mutually agreeable solution prevented a lasting resolution.

Government Actions and the Decision to Cease Ration Support

By 2019, government authorities recognized that the longstanding crisis needed decisive action. The Central and Tripura State governments announced that they would halt the distribution of free rations and other essential supplies to the displaced Bru community starting from November 1, 2019. This announcement was intended to encourage the community to return to Mizoram, where resettlement plans were repeatedly proposed.

However, the sudden cessation of food and resources sparked unrest and desperation among the Bru community. Many Bru refugees felt that they had no alternative but to protest. On November 1, 2019, hundreds of Bru people initiated a road blockade and a hunger strike, determined to make their plight known to the world. The situation became dire as the days passed, with no food or water, and on November 2, an elderly woman collapsed after over 24 hours without sustenance.

UTF’s Humanitarian Response to the Crisis

Upon hearing of the distressing conditions in the Bru camps, the United Tiprasa Forum (UTF) stepped in with urgency and empathy. UTF is a dedicated organization that supports the marginalized and vulnerable communities within Tripura. Recognizing the Bru community as part of the 19 distinct tribal communities under the Tipra Tribe of Tripura, UTF mobilized a relief operation to provide immediate aid to those affected by the ration cut.

UTF made a public appeal for support, urging citizens to contribute to a fund for providing emergency rations. With a strong and compassionate response from the public, UTF quickly gathered supplies. On November 3, 2019, a four-member UTF team visited the affected areas and distributed 1,000 kilograms of rice and other essential food items. This timely intervention brought much-needed relief to the hunger-stricken Bru people, who were striving to survive in extreme conditions.

The Role of the Tiprasa Community and UTF’s Call for Unity

UTF’s aid mission was met with gratitude and relief by the Bru people and underscored the spirit of solidarity within the Tiprasa community. The organization’s initiative exemplified the unity and resilience of the Tiprasa people, who rallied around their displaced kin, offering support and amplifying their voices in the fight for justice.

UTF acknowledged the generosity of every contributor to the relief effort, recognizing that the collective compassion of the people of Tripura made it possible to deliver substantial aid to those in need. UTF also issued a heartfelt call to other civil society organizations, urging them to join the cause and extend support on humanitarian grounds. This appeal for broader involvement reflects UTF’s commitment to promoting understanding and solidarity, not only among the Tiprasa community but across all communities.

A Long Road Ahead for the Bru Settlement

Despite the temporary relief provided, the issue of the Bru’s permanent settlement remains unresolved. In January 2020, a historic agreement was finally reached, allowing the Bru community to resettle in Tripura with proper rights and entitlements. The agreement brought hope for a stable future, promising land and financial assistance to the Bru people as they build new lives in Tripura. However, implementing this resettlement plan continues to face logistical and administrative challenges.

Conclusion

The Bru settlement issue is a poignant reminder of the struggles that arise from ethnic and community-based conflicts. It underscores the need for peaceful coexistence, understanding, and proactive resolution of disputes. The United Tiprasa Forum’s role in providing timely relief and advocating for the rights of the displaced Bru community highlights the importance of civil society organizations in supporting marginalized communities during crises.

While significant progress has been made with the 2020 resettlement agreement, the journey towards justice and stability for the Bru people is ongoing. UTF, along with other civil society groups, remains committed to aiding this community, demonstrating that compassion and solidarity are crucial to addressing the consequences of displacement and ensuring a dignified future for all.

During the road blockade at Kanchanpur, UTF Secretary Mr. Sajal Debbarma delivered a brief but impactful message. He expressed solidarity with the displaced Bru community and emphasized UTF’s commitment to supporting their rights and welfare. Mr. Debbarma urged the government and concerned authorities to address the community’s immediate needs and work towards a long-term solution that ensures dignity, stability, and justice for the Bru people. UTF stands with the Bru community and calls for peaceful dialogue to resolve this prolonged crisis.

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