The resettlement of Bru (Reang) migrants is a long-standing issue stemming from ethnic violence in Mizoram in 1997. This article highlights the efforts made by the Indian government and state governments of Mizoram and Tripura to provide a permanent solution for the Bru migrants, who have been displaced from their homes for over two decades.
Background of the Displacement
In 1997-1998, approximately 30,000 Bru migrants (5,000 families) fled ethnic violence in western Mizoram and sought refuge in North Tripura. They were provided shelter in six relief camps in the Kanchanpur district. The initial attempt at repatriation began in 2010 and continued until 2014, during which time approximately 1,622 Bru families (8,573 individuals) were resettled in Mizoram.
The 2018 Agreement and Subsequent Challenges
In 2018, an agreement was signed between the Governments of India, Mizoram, and Tripura, along with the Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Forum (MBDPF), to repatriate 5,407 Bru families (32,876 individuals) from Tripura. However, only 328 families (1,369 individuals) returned to Mizoram by November 2019. The remaining families expressed apprehensions about their security in Mizoram and requested to be settled in Tripura.
The 2020 Agreement: A Permanent Solution
Recognizing the persistent demand of the Bru families to settle in Tripura, a new agreement was signed on January 16, 2020. This agreement outlined a comprehensive financial assistance package for the permanent settlement of Bru migrants in Tripura.
Financial Assistance Package
Each Bru family is entitled to the following assistance:
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A Fixed Deposit (FD) of Rs. 4 lakh.
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Cash assistance of Rs. 5,000 per month for two years.
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Free ration for two years.
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House Building Assistance (HBA) of Rs. 1,50,000.
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A plot of land measuring 30×40 sq. ft.
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Free transportation to the resettlement location.
Progress and Implementation
As per the latest reports from the Government of Tripura, 6,302 Bru families have been settled in 11 identified locations, and 6,002 houses have been completed by December 31, 2023. All Bru beneficiaries are paid directly through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Year-wise Financial Details
The following table provides the year-wise expenditure and funds released for rehabilitation schemes for Bru migrants (in Rs. crore):
| Years | Tripura | Mizoram |
| 2014-15 | 35.00 | 4.70 |
| 2015-16 | 30.00 | 5.00 |
| 2016-17 | 22.26 | 7.50 |
| 2017-18 | 25.14 | 16.50 |
| 2018-19 | 45.17 | 50.00 |
| 2019-20 | 28.38 | 100.00 |
| 2020-21 | 140.00 | 0 |
| 2021-22 | 130.12 | 0 |
| 2022-23 | 158.74 | 0 |
| 2023-24 | 183.13 | 0 |
(upto 31.12.2023)
This data demonstrates the continued financial commitment of the government towards the rehabilitation of Bru migrants.
Conclusion
The resettlement of Bru migrants in Tripura is a complex and long-term endeavor. The 2020 agreement and the associated financial package represent a significant step towards a permanent solution. The provision of housing, financial assistance, and other support measures aim to ensure the well-being and integration of Bru migrants into the social fabric of Tripura. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to addressing long-standing issues of displacement and promoting inclusive development.