Tripura: Prominent Tribal Student Organization Ends Protest Over Kokborok Language Script

Agartala, March 24 (NationPress) The Twipra Students' Federation (TSF), a key tribal student organization in Tripura, announced the cessation of its indefinite statewide protest, which included road blockades, effective Monday following a significant meeting with Chief Minister Manik Saha.

A TSF delegation, consisting of Vice-President John Debbarma and General Secretary Hamalu Jamatia, expressed satisfaction with the discussions post-meeting and remained optimistic about a resolution regarding their demand for the adoption of the Roman script for the tribal Kokborok language.

The Chief Minister, after meeting with the TSF leaders, stated in a post on his X handle: “Productive meeting with the TSF delegation this evening! They shared their concerns, and I ensured them that we will collaborate to find resolutions. I value their dedication to 'Ek Tripura, Viksit Tripura' and their commitment to our state's overall progress. Anticipating joint efforts for a brighter future for Tripura!”

Speaking to the media after the meeting with Saha, TSF General Secretary Jamatia mentioned that the Chief Minister assured them that he would discuss their demands with the cabinet and other officials.

“Since he initiated discussions with us, we are hopeful that he will genuinely address the matter. Therefore, we are temporarily suspending the strike,” Jamatia stated.

He further clarified that the TSF is not seeking the inclusion of the Kokborok language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution, emphasizing that script selection is a state matter and can be resolved at the state level without constitutional amendments.

The agitation over the Kokborok language script has been ongoing for years in Tripura, with various tribal organizations and political groups frequently engaging in the debate.

The suspension of the statewide agitation, including road blockades, represents a temporary halt in the protest; however, TSF leadership indicated that they would establish a committee to monitor the state government’s actions closely before determining the next steps.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister stated on Friday that the state government would not compromise on students' futures and would swiftly address the tribal Kokborok language script issue.

During the initial day of the week-long Budget session, he mentioned that the government is earnestly examining the Kokborok language script matter and aims to resolve the issue soon.

“In-depth discussions and numerous talks occurred regarding the issue. We questioned why the Roman script was preferred over the Devanagari script for writing the Kokborok language. Although many discussions took place, no definitive decision was made. Several protests have been held over the years. The leadership also met with me, and we discussed the matter. According to the recent tripartite agreement, this script issue is also included, and discussions are ongoing,” Saha conveyed to the Assembly.

The Chief Minister’s remarks in the Assembly followed a day-long demonstration by the TSF on Friday, advocating for the adoption of the Roman script for the tribal Kokborok language, which included blocking the main VIP road leading to various government installations.

This protest coincided with the opening day of the Tripura Assembly's budget session, intensifying their long-standing demand for reforming the script for the Kokborok language.