Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, founder of Tipra Motha, announced significant progress in the second round of negotiations for the Tiprasa Accord with the Union Home Ministry on Tuesday, December 3. The talks, focused on addressing long-standing issues of Tripura’s tribal communities, were described as “constructive” and a potential breakthrough. Key demands discussed included land rights, linguistic preservation, Articles 2 and 3, upgrading the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), and establishing a Central University. “We have stood firm on all our demands. Dialogue, not violence, is the path to solutions,” Debbarma stated, advocating for peaceful resolutions over confrontation.
Debbarma emphasized prioritizing community development over party politics. “This is about the people, not my party. We must rise above political divides to secure a future for our communities,” he affirmed. A third round of discussions is scheduled in two months, with Debbarma committing to sustained efforts. “An honourable solution is necessary, not just symbolic gestures,” he said, underscoring his resolve to continue the dialogue.
He contrasted Tipra Motha’s proactive approach with the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), claiming the latter had held only one discussion with the Centre in five years. Expressing gratitude towards the Union Ministry, he vowed not to compromise on securing the future of Tripura’s tribal communities.