Agartala, April 1: Mounting a sharp offensive against the ruling BJP, Pradyot Kishore Debbarma on Wednesday declared that his party would not compromise on the demand for “Greater Tipraland,” accusing the ruling alliance of betraying indigenous communities ahead of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections.
Launching his campaign at a large rally in Gomati district, the TIPRA Motha founder dismissed any scope for opportunistic alliances, alleging that inducements such as power, money, and positions were being used to lure leaders away from the party’s core ideology. He stressed that his political approach is rooted in securing long-term rights for indigenous people rather than short-term gains.
“A few individuals may benefit from such arrangements, but what about the future of our people?” Debbarma said, underlining that the demand for Greater Tipraland remains non-negotiable. He further warned that the party is preparing for a sustained mass movement over the next 18 months to push for the implementation of commitments related to tribal rights.
Positioning the upcoming ADC elections as part of a broader political strategy, Debbarma indicated that the battle would extend into the 2028 Assembly elections. He described the movement as one focused on self-rule, dignity, and securing a better future for coming generations.
The TIPRA Motha chief also accused the state BJP leadership of attempting to weaken his party by dividing tribal votes instead of addressing key issues such as land rights, education, and economic development. He alleged that certain advisers influencing the state government had previously been associated with CPI(M) and were now shaping strategies aimed at undermining TIPRA Motha.
Drawing a distinction between the Centre and the state, Debbarma suggested that while there has been some willingness in New Delhi to engage with indigenous concerns, progress on assurances under the Tripura Accord is being hindered at the state level.
Calling on voters to reject what he termed decades of political neglect, he urged unity among indigenous communities. “For years, our people have been divided and used. This time, unity will determine our future,” he said.
With tensions rising between former allies, Debbarma’s remarks signal an intensifying political contest in Tripura’s tribal belt, likely to shape the state’s electoral landscape beyond the immediate ADC polls.
