Agartala: TIPRA Motha founder Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, an ally of the ruling BJP, met chief minister Manik Saha on Wednesday night. He also held a separate discussion with chief secretary J K Sinha over commitments to execute the 2024 Tiprasa (tribal) Accord after Durga Puja.With urban local body elections approaching, Debbarma’s meeting with the chief minister triggered speculation. A coalition partner in the BJP-governed state, TIPRA Motha had earlier announced plans to sever electoral ties with BJP unless the accord was executed and tribal land rights were guaranteed.Three weeks ago, Debbarma had announced his retreat from active politics, saying his involvement stemmed from persistent denials of dignity and rights to tribal communities rather than personal gain. His sudden return before the election announcements, however, has raised questions within TIPRA Motha.After the meetings, Debbarma described the talks to safeguard Tiprasa rights as productive and encouraging. He told reporters he received assurances on timely execution and remained hopeful of progress in the coming months.While several provisions of the accord were discussed, Debbarma declined to share specifics, saying the chief minister should also offer his perspective. Despite stepping back from active politics, he said he continues to represent Tripura’s people rather than his party.Asked about Saha’s earlier remarks on talks with Centre, Debbarma said a formal notification is expected within days. Since signing the 2024 accord, TIPRA Motha has consistently pushed for its execution.
Should TIPRA Motha sever ties with BJP if their demands are not met?
3k+ users shared opinion today
5k+ users already voted today
3k+ users shared opinion today
Debbarma expressed hope that the process would address concerns of those who feel their rights were overlooked without harming any community. Noting that Tripura is on the cusp of a developmental phase, he stressed peaceful coexistence between Bengalis and Tiprasa to secure a future for children from both groups.He added that Wednesday’s meeting focused on Tiprasa and public rights rather than politics or civic poll seat-sharing, and that he engaged with Saha as chief minister rather than in negotiations with BJP.
