Agartala, 25 February :In a significant development, opposition party TIPRA Motha has announced plans to block National Highway 8, the vital lifeline of Tripura, in protest against the central government’s perceived procrastination in implementing constitutional solutions for the state’s indigenous population.
The decision was revealed by party’s president Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl speaking with reporters in Agartala on Sunday, following a meeting of the central working committee, district leaders, and various other organizations.
Hrangkhawl, also a former MLA, disclosed that the agitation would commence on the upcoming Wednesday, with Pradyot Kishore Debbarma and other leaders embarking on a hunger strike.
Hrangkhawl emphasized the party’s frustration with the central government’s prolonged discussions, alleging a deliberate delay in addressing demands for Greater Tipraland and constitutional rights for indigenous people.
Hrangkhawl, a former militant turned politician, accused the central government of engaging in political maneuvering to undermine TIPRA Motha’s support base, dismissing defections to the BJP as orchestrated and insisting that those left are still remain TIPRA supporters.
Regarding the hunger strike, Hrangkhawl stated that it could potentially escalate into a fast-unto-death or an indefinite strike, underscoring the seriousness of the party’s stance.
Additionally, he hinted at undisclosed future plans to further pressure the government.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that TIPRA Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore who had a day ago threatened to go for a fast until death has been urgently called to New Delhi for engaging in discussions with the central government, along with meetings with senior BJP leaders.
The outcome of these discussions remains to be seen as tensions escalate in Tripura.
