Why Did 6,400 Tribal Voters Join BJP in Tripura?
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Synopsis
In a significant political shift, Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha announces the addition of 6,400 tribal voters to the BJP. This move underscores the government's commitment to the all-round development of tribal communities and the party's growing influence ahead of the upcoming TTAADC elections. Can this momentum transform Tripura's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- 6,400 tribal voters joined the BJP, highlighting growing support.
- The BJP's commitment to tribal development is a key focal point.
- Recent events indicate a strengthening of the BJP's tribal base.
- The upcoming TTAADC elections will be crucial for political dynamics.
- Rival parties are actively challenging the BJP's governance.
Agartala, Oct 24 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, reaffirmed on Friday that the BJP government is dedicated to promoting the comprehensive socio-economic development of the Janajati (tribal) communities, pledging to take all essential measures for their advancement without any compromise.
Saha, who previously served as the president of the Tripura BJP unit, welcomed 6,400 new voters, predominantly from tribal backgrounds, into the BJP during an event held in Krishnapur, located in the Khowai district.
This recent surge in membership occurred just three days after 690 voters from 200 families, primarily tribal, joined the party in the presence of the Chief Minister at Takarjala in the Sepahijala district on October 22.
In the past few weeks, several hundred tribal individuals have also aligned with the BJP, further fortifying the party’s tribal constituency ahead of the pivotal elections for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) next year.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the citizens of Tripura are committed to peace, development, and democracy, asserting that the current administration will not condone any form of violence in the state.
During a subtle critique of the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), the BJP’s junior coalition partner, Saha remarked, “Should anyone challenge us, we will respond appropriately through legal channels.”
He claimed that members of the tribal-focused Tiprasa Civil Society (TCS) instigated an armed movement disguised as a peaceful protest on Thursday, revealing their true intentions.
“Today, 6,400 voters have chosen to join the BJP. You made the right choice at the right moment. Without the BJP, progress in the TTAADC, the state, or the nation is unattainable,” Saha stated.
He recounted a prior incident at a joining event in Takarjala, where individuals wearing masks affiliated with the Tipra Motha Party assaulted BJP supporters en route to the gathering.
Without directly naming TMP MLA Ranjit Debbarma, Saha indicated that a movement was being orchestrated under the leadership of such masked individuals in the name of civil rights.
“What type of movement is this? During a 24-hour shutdown on Thursday, they attacked our workers, including a BDO, an engineer, and an SDPO, wielding sticks and rods, yet they label it a peaceful movement! What are they truly advocating?” he questioned.
Challenging the leadership of the TMP, Saha asserted that whenever they perceive a threat, they instigate unrest.
“In a few days, they will again claim they desire peace. But their true nature is now evident to all,” he added.
He alleged that the TMP had threatened constituents, claiming that national parties like the BJP would not be permitted to enter TTAADC territories.
“But the BJP can traverse any part of the nation; no one can halt our progress. I caution them that such tactics may yield temporary results but will not endure. One of the BJP’s fundamental objectives is the holistic development of the Janajati populace,” he asserted.
Saha reminisced about the last TTAADC elections in 2021, when he was the BJP state president, noting his visits to various locations where BJP offices had been vandalized.
“Even the portrait of the former king, Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, was desecrated,” he lamented. Saha pointed out that Tripura has endured 35 years under Left rule and five years of Congress governance, neither of which respected the Maharajas.
“Following the BJP’s ascension to power, the Agartala airport was renamed in honor of Maharaja Bir Bikram. A statue of the Maharaja has been erected at Kaman Chowmuhani in the city center. To honor him, his birthday, August 19, has been designated as a public holiday,” he noted.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister expressed that since Narendra Modi took office as Prime Minister, significant efforts have been made towards the welfare and upliftment of tribal communities.
“The honorarium for leaders of the Janajati community has increased from Rs 2,000 to 5,000. Officials have also been appointed at both sub-district and district levels to oversee special projects aimed at the welfare of tribals,” he concluded.
In attendance at the event were BJP President and Rajya Sabha member Rajib Bhattacharjee, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikas Debbarma, BJP General Secretary Bipin Debbarma, former MP Rebati Tripura, district president Binay Debbarma, TTAADC member Bidyut Debbarma, and other party dignitaries.
Point of View
The recent influx of tribal voters into the BJP signifies a noteworthy shift in Tripura's political landscape. Chief Minister Manik Saha's commitment to the socio-economic development of tribal communities highlights the party's strategic focus on inclusivity and progress. This development not only strengthens the BJP's foothold in the region but also raises questions about the future political dynamics leading to the TTAADC elections.
NationPress
26/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the tribal voters to join the BJP?
The BJP's commitment to the socio-economic development of tribal communities and the recent initiatives aimed at their welfare influenced the tribal voters' decision to join the party.
How many tribal voters joined the BJP recently?
Recently, 6,400 tribal voters joined the BJP, following another wave of 690 voters just days earlier.
What is the significance of the TTAADC elections?
The TTAADC elections are crucial as they hold political weight in Tripura, especially for the tribal communities. The BJP aims to strengthen its position in these elections.
What has been the BJP's approach towards tribal communities?
The BJP has focused on ensuring the overall development of tribal communities, enhancing their welfare through various initiatives and programs.
What challenges does the BJP face in Tripura?
The BJP faces challenges from opposition parties, particularly the Tipra Motha Party, which seeks to represent tribal interests and has been critical of the BJP's governance.
