Agartala, Nov 11: The Tipra Motha Party on Wednesday evening lodged a formal police complaint against BJP MLA Tafajjal Hossain of Boxanagar over his alleged derogatory remarks targeting the indigenous Tiprasa community, with party leaders demanding legal action against the legislator.
A delegation led by Member of District Council (MDC) and Youth Tipra Federation (YTF) president Suraj Debbarma submitted the complaint at West Agartala police station. The complaint was jointly filed by Purna Chandra Jamatia, MDC and Tipra Motha Central Working Committee member Sujoy Uchoi, also an MDC, Uttam Tripura, convenor of TISF, and Babulu Debbarma, Sepahijala district president of YTF.
Speaking to reporters after filing the complaint, Suraj said the issue should not be viewed as a confrontation between political parties, but as a matter concerning the dignity and sentiments of the indigenous people.
He stressed that although the BJP and Tipra Motha are NDA allies, the alliance cannot justify silence when anyone makes remarks that allegedly insult the community.
“Whether an MLA, minister or MP, the law is equal for everyone. Holding a responsible constitutional position does not give anyone the licence to make such statements,” he said.
Suraj described the alleged remarks as shocking and questioned how an elected representative could use language that hurts the sentiments of Tripura’s indigenous population.
Referring to earlier objections raised by Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, he said the party would continue to stand up for the rights and dignity of the Tiprasa people irrespective of political considerations.
He said the police had assured the delegation that action would be taken in accordance with the law. Suraj added that the party might organise protests if appropriate action was not initiated.
The complaint comes amid growing political criticism of Hossain’s remarks, which have also drawn condemnation from leaders across party lines.
