Agartala, April 11: Ruling BJP alliance Tipra Motha founder and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Debbarma on Friday reiterated his commitment to raising the concerns of the Tiprasa people, asserting that being in government does not mean remaining silent or merely applauding its achievements.
Speaking to reporters after a public rally at Takarjal in Sepahijala district, Debbarma said that alliance partners have a responsibility to hold the government accountable to ensure inclusive development across Tripura.
“We are not in the government to praise each other. We are here to show the mirror to officials and politicians. There has been progress, but we can’t ignore what’s lacking. Many areas still face acute water crisis despite pipeline projects being laid,” Debbarma stated.
Responding to queries on the resettlement of displaced Bru people and the Jal Jeevan Mission’s outreach, he said that while efforts are visible, delivery on the ground remains incomplete in many tribal regions. “Having pipelines is not enough. If water doesn’t reach homes in places like Raishyabari, Thalchara, or Jangthung, then the job isn’t done,” he added.
Debbarma emphasized that the alliance with the BJP does not dilute Tipra Motha’s core mission. “We are also in the government to push for what matters to the Tiprasa people, not just sit back and celebrate partial successes,” he said, expressing hope that consistent pressure would drive meaningful responses from the state machinery.
Addressing the crowd earlier, Pradyot also touched upon the much-awaited Tipra Accord, saying that delays were due to deeper issues like land rights, direct funding to the TTAADC, and recognition of the Roman script for Kokborok—issues that transcend financial aid. “If it was only about money, it would have been solved long back. But this is about dignity and our rights,” he said.
He also warned of attempts to destabilize tribal unity and Tipra Motha’s leadership through inducements and political manipulation. “Our strength is in our unity—our thansa. We must stay united to be a decisive force in the 2026 and 2028 elections,” he declared.
Drawing parallels with past struggles, he reminded the public that the formation of TTAADC by the TUJS took 17 years and the Bru community waited over two decades for rehabilitation. “This is not a fight for money. It’s a fight for our future generations,” Pradyot concluded.
He also criticized national parties like the BJP, Congress, and CPI(M) for consistently neglecting indigenous issues in Tripura, reinforcing his party’s stand as a voice for the tribal population.
