Agartala, Nov 28: TIPRA Motha founder Pradyut Bikram Manikya Deb Barma has accused “some people in powerful positions” of attempting to derail the massive indigenous rally held in the national capital on Wednesday, even as he renewed his call for a united political front for the Northeast.
Pradyut said the rally — which he claimed drew over one lakh people — faced repeated administrative hurdles.
Speaking to reporters, Pradyut said, “Everything was done to ensure our rally does not happen. First they cancelled it on the 7th, then on the 15th. This time we got the ground only at 11:30 pm on the 26th, just hours before the event,”.
He added that volunteers worked through the night to build the stage.
“Despite all this, one lakh people came together. This is the biggest rally Tripura has ever seen,” he said.
Leaders from multiple states, including Conrad K. Sangma, Ajay Edwards and Daniel Langthasa, joined the event.
On the speculation around a new regional political formation, Pradyut denied finalising any name.
“No such name has been discussed publicly. Name is not important — people are,” he said.
He also stressed the need for unity across the region.
“Delhi sees us all as Northeasterners. But when we return home, we divide ourselves as Garos, Khasis, Maitais, Hindus, Christians. That must stop,” he said.
Pradyut said the Northeast must negotiate with the Centre collectively.
“Some of our states have fewer people than one UP district. If we stand separately, nobody will take us seriously. If we stand together, Delhi cannot divide us,” he said.
When asked about election symbols and party mergers, he remained guarded.
“Let people stay confused for now. We will reveal everything at the right time,” he said, adding that “amalgamation” was a better word than merger as “identities must be retained.”
Pradyut also dismissed fears that regional agitations affect trade.
“Why link the Northeast with violence? One lakh people gathered and not a single shop was harmed,” he said.
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