In Delhi, TIPRA Motha’s Pradyot Says Tripura Tribals Willing to Give Centre ‘Last Chance’ on ‘Constitutional Solution’

In a powerful and emotionally charged address at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, TIPRA Motha chief Pradyot Kishore Debbarma declared that Tripura’s indigenous tribal communities are prepared to give the Central Government one final opportunity to deliver on its promise of a “constitutional solution.” The statement comes nearly 18 months after the signing of the historic Tiprasa Accord, which was meant to address longstanding demands related to land, identity, and political rights of Tripura’s tribal population.

The demonstration, held on September 9, 2025, was attended by tribal leaders, youth activists, and supporters from across the Northeast, including BJP MP Kriti Devi Debbarma, Pradyot’s sister. The event marked the culmination of a 2,500 km-long “Pedal Yatra” led by youth leader David Murasingh, symbolizing the resilience and determination of Tripura’s tribal communities.

The Tiprasa Accord: A Promise Unfulfilled?

Signed on March 2, 2024, the Tiprasa Accord was a tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Tripura Government, and TIPRA Motha. It promised to resolve issues related to history, land, political representation, economic development, and cultural identity of Tripura’s indigenous people. However, according to Pradyot, the implementation has been stalled due to resistance from certain political factions within Tripura.

Pradyot emphasized that while the Centre, particularly Home Minister Amit Shah, has shown support, local political resistance has hindered progress. “We are honest and simple, but it doesn’t mean we are scared of anyone,” he said, urging Delhi to take the Northeast seriously.

A Historic Parallel: Indira Gandhi and the ADC

Drawing a parallel with history, Pradyot recalled how former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi overruled opposition within the Congress party in 1982 to approve the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). He cited Congress leader Ashok Bhattacharya’s infamous statement—“rokto dibo kintu ADC debona” (blood would be given but not an ADC)—to highlight the resistance tribal demands have historically faced.

Pradyot urged Amit Shah to emulate Gandhi’s decisiveness and implement the Tiprasa Accord without further delay.

The Delhi Demonstration: A Unified Tribal Voice

The protest in Delhi was notably devoid of party flags or banners, signaling a unified tribal voice beyond political affiliations. Leaders from Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Tripura joined the gathering, reinforcing the pan-Northeast solidarity behind the demands.

Torch rallies were simultaneously held across Tripura, with thousands participating in block-level mobilizations. In Agartala, the rally began from Swami Vivekananda Stadium and was attended by TIPRA Motha MLAs, TTAADC members, and civil society representatives.

David Murasingh, who led the Pedal Yatra, was hailed as a symbol of tribal perseverance. His journey from Tripura to Delhi was described by Pradyot as “not just a march, but a message.”

Political Dynamics and Resistance

Pradyot did not mince words when addressing internal resistance within the Tripura BJP. He accused certain leaders of obstructing the constitutional solution despite support from the Centre. “There are people in Tripura who, like Ashok Bhattacharya, are creating unnecessary obstacles,” he said.

This internal friction has raised questions about the BJP’s commitment to tribal welfare, especially as TIPRA Motha remains a key ally in the state. The party has announced plans to launch a statewide movement next month to build public pressure and engage leaders across political lines.

Constitutional Solution: What It Means

The term “constitutional solution” refers to formal recognition and protection of tribal rights within the Indian Constitution. This includes land rights, political autonomy, cultural preservation, and economic upliftment. TIPRA Motha has long advocated for the creation of “Greater Tipraland,” a proposed autonomous region for indigenous communities.

Pradyot reiterated that the movement is not anti-national but seeks justice within the constitutional framework. “We are giving Delhi a last chance. If they fail, we will not remain silent,” he warned.

Future Roadmap and Mobilization

TIPRA Motha has outlined a multi-phase strategy to escalate its demands. This includes:

• Launching a statewide awareness campaign in Tripura
• Engaging with national parties and civil society groups
• Filing legal petitions to expedite implementation
• Organizing mass mobilizations and peaceful protests

Pradyot also hinted at personal sacrifices, stating, “If needed, I am ready to go to jail. But I will not compromise in my fight for tribal welfare.”

Conclusion

The Delhi demonstration led by TIPRA Motha marks a critical juncture in Tripura’s tribal movement. With the Tiprasa Accord hanging in the balance and tribal patience wearing thin, the Centre faces mounting pressure to act decisively. Pradyot Kishore Debbarma’s call for a “last chance” is not just a political statement—it’s a plea for justice, dignity, and recognition.

As Tripura’s indigenous communities rally behind their leaders, the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether promises made will finally be fulfilled—or whether a new wave of tribal mobilization will reshape the state’s political landscape.

Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and statements made by political leaders. All claims and interpretations are subject to legal and governmental review. The individuals and entities mentioned are presumed to be acting within the bounds of democratic rights and constitutional frameworks.