Agartala, May 2 — A wave of discontent is building across Bru resettlement camps in North Tripura, with residents issuing a strong warning to the administration to create separate Village Councils ahead of the upcoming Village Committee elections or face mass protests.
On Saturday, thousands of residents from Naisingpara, Khasnampara and Ashapara converged at the Dasda Block office, where they submitted a memorandum through Block Development Officer Ampuia Darlong addressed to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate. The demonstration reflected growing frustration over what the community describes as inadequate political representation following their resettlement.
At the heart of the demand is the need for fresh delimitation and an increase in the number of Village Council seats. Residents argue that since the 2020 quadripartite agreement led to the large-scale rehabilitation of Bru families in the region, the population has increased significantly. However, representation has remained unchanged, with the settlements currently allotted only two seats.
Protesters contend that this limited representation fails to reflect the demographic reality and effectively sidelines their participation in grassroots governance. They have urged the authorities to invoke provisions under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) rules, which allow for boundary reorganisation and creation of new councils in special circumstances.
The protest saw strong participation from men, women and youth, with speakers highlighting concerns over democratic rights and equitable governance. Community leaders stressed that without immediate intervention, the situation could escalate.
Adopting a firm stance, one of the representatives warned that the agitation would intensify if their demands are not met. “If the administration ignores us, we will be compelled to take stronger action, including locking the Block office and gheraoing the SDM office. We cannot remain silent while our rights are overlooked,” the representative said.
The developments have raised concerns among administrative and political circles, especially with elections approaching. Officials confirmed receipt of the memorandum and assured that the matter would be forwarded to higher authorities for consideration.
The coming days are likely to be crucial as the administration weighs its response to the growing demand for greater representation and inclusion.
