Agartala, Dec 19: Political fault lines within Tripura’s ruling NDA alliance widened sharply on Thursday, as TIPRA Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarma launched a scathing attack on the BJP and Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha over the ongoing Kokborok script controversy.
Addressing a massive torch rally organised by the United Movement Committee for Roman Script, Debbarma accused the state government of attempting to dictate tribal identity and “betraying the aspirations” of indigenous people.
He asserted that only Tripura’s tribal communities have the right to decide the script of Kokborok, declaring: “No outsider, no matter how powerful, has the authority to impose decisions on tribal identity.”
The rally was held in response to Dr Saha’s statement opposing the adoption of the Roman script for Kokborok, sparking widespread resentment among tribal organisations and student bodies. Calling the CM’s stance “unwarranted interference,” Debbarma warned the BJP against undermining indigenous sentiment rooted in language and culture.
Refuting the Chief Minister’s claim that TIPRA Motha delayed the Tiprasa Accord, Debbarma accused the BJP of failing to fulfil major promises made to tribal communities. “I did not sign the Accord to earn money or power. If the promises are not fulfilled, I will raise my voice for my people,” he said.
He also dismissed Dr Saha’s assertion that the BJP will sweep all 28 seats in the upcoming TTAADC elections, alleging that party leaders are disconnected from ground realities in tribal areas.
Debbarma’s direct challenge to the BJP on issues of identity and governance has intensified tensions within the alliance, raising fresh uncertainties over NDA cohesion ahead of the crucial TTAADC polls.
Also Read: Torch rally demands Roman script for Kokborok textbooks, exams
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