Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma on Monday, April 6, sharply criticised the BJP for releasing a poll manifesto that, he alleged, ignores key concerns of Tripura’s indigenous communities, including land rights, direct funding, and the script for the Kokborok language.
Addressing a large election rally in Ampi under Gomati district in support of Tipra Motha Party candidate Kamal Koloi for the TTAADC elections, Pradyot questioned the BJP’s stance on the Roman script. He pointed out that despite opposing the use of the Roman script for Kokborok, the party had published its own manifesto using the same script.
He further alleged that the BJP manifesto does not mention crucial issues such as indigenous rights and land protection. He also claimed that the party intends to remove the term “tribal” from the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), asserting that he would not compromise on such matters.
Highlighting what he described as inconsistencies in the BJP’s position, Pradyot said the party shifts its stance frequently—sometimes aligning with different communities—while indigenous people remain neglected. He urged unity among tribal communities, stating that only collective strength could ensure political empowerment and a better future.
Framing the election as a choice between immediate monetary benefits and long-term rights, he appealed to voters to prioritise education, land rights, and the future of the next generation. He asked voters to choose between himself and Manik Saha, emphasising that the decision would shape the future of indigenous communities.
Pradyot also raised concerns about poor infrastructure and development in tribal areas, questioning why roads remain underdeveloped, why access to water is still inadequate despite significant expenditure, and why education standards remain low.
