Why is BJP Criticizing TMP for Allegations Against CM Saha?
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Synopsis
In a fierce political clash, the BJP has condemned the TMP for accusations against Chief Minister Manik Saha regarding tribal welfare. As tensions rise ahead of the TTAADC elections, both parties aim to strengthen their influence among tribal communities. What does this mean for Tripura's political landscape?
Key Takeaways
- BJP criticizes TMP for allegations against CM Saha.
- Government increases honorarium for tribal leaders.
- Concerns over ethnic tensions and political strategies.
- Upcoming TTAADC elections are pivotal for both parties.
- Demands for greater tribal rights continue to escalate.
Agartala, Oct 16 (NationPress) The ruling BJP has fiercely condemned its junior ally, the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), for alleging that the saffron party has neglected the welfare of the tribal community and for making undemocratic statements regarding Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha.
BJP’s Tripura State Vice-President Bimal Chakma, along with party General Secretary Bipin Debbarma and youth leader Sanjit Reang, claimed that TMP leaders are misrepresenting Tripura’s history for electoral advantages as the critical elections for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) approach early next year.
Chakma emphasized the government's commitment to tribal welfare, noting that the Centre, based on a proposal from the state, renamed the Agartala Airport after former king Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur (1923–1947) and designated his birthday, August 19, as a government holiday.
“Tripura’s former Deputy Chief Minister Jishnu Dev Varma, a seasoned tribal leader, has been appointed as the Governor of Telangana. Several BJP Chief Ministers, including President Droupadi Murmu, are from the tribal community,” stated Chakma.
He mentioned that the Tripura government has provided necessary respect and recognition to tribal community leaders (Samajpatis).
Recently, the BJP increased the monthly honorarium for tribal leaders to foster goodwill within tribal communities.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Saha announced, “The State Cabinet has decided to raise the monthly honorarium for tribal community leaders (Samajpatis) from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000. This reflects our government's commitment to honoring the vital contributions of the Samajpatis.”
Chakma accused TMP leaders of targeting CM Saha with derogatory labels such as “Bengali Chief Minister” and “Bangladeshi Chief Minister.”
“TMP leaders also declared that no national party would be permitted to enter TTAADC areas. We have witnessed ethnic conflicts in Tripura back in 1980,” he questioned, suggesting that there are attempts to instigate discord between tribal and non-tribal communities.
BJP General Secretary Debbarma stated that TMP leaders are not only disrespecting the Chief Minister but are also misrepresenting Tripura’s history. The relationship between the ruling BJP and ally TMP remains complex.
On October 15, TMP leader Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma threatened to exit the BJP-led government if rights for the ‘Tiprasa’ (indigenous tribals) are not acknowledged.
Debbarma and other TMP leaders have previously hinted at breaking their alliance with BJP. Reports of clashes between party workers have surfaced, resulting in injuries to over 15 BJP members in various incidents.
As the TTAADC elections draw near, both BJP and TMP are striving to broaden their appeal among tribal populations.
Recently, hundreds of TMP members joined the BJP in gatherings attended by senior leaders, including Chief Minister Saha. The TMP has been at the helm of the 30-member TTAADC, governing two-thirds of Tripura’s area of 10,491 sq km, home to over 12.16 lakh people, approximately 84% of whom are tribals.
TMP has accused the BJP government of inaction against illegal immigrants and is advocating for their immediate removal. The party is also organizing a 12-hour shutdown on October 23 to demand the fulfillment of eight critical demands, including the identification and deportation of illegal migrants in accordance with the directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
A TMP delegation, led by Debbarma, met with the Chief Election Commissioner, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Health Minister, and BJP President J.P. Nadda in July and August, requesting a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Tripura’s electoral rolls, similar to the process in Bihar.
The TMP also staged a demonstration in Delhi on September 9 advocating for its three-point demands: implementation of the tripartite agreement, deportation of illegal immigrants from Tripura, and safeguarding indigenous rights.
The party is calling for “Greater Tipraland,” a separate state for tribals under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution, and the prompt conduct of long-overdue village committee elections within TTAADC areas.
Following extensive discussions and a tripartite agreement with the Centre and the Tripura government on March 2 last year, the then-opposition TMP joined the BJP-led coalition government on March 7, 2024, altering Tripura’s political dynamics.
Two TMP MLAs, Animesh Debbarma and Brishaketu Debbarma, were included in the ministry led by Chief Minister Manik Saha.
Point of View
It is essential to maintain an unbiased stance while reporting on the political dynamics between BJP and TMP in Tripura. The criticisms exchanged highlight the complexity of coalition politics, especially regarding tribal welfare. Observers must watch closely as both parties navigate their strategies ahead of the TTAADC elections, keeping the interests of the tribal community at the forefront.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the recent conflict between BJP and TMP?
The conflict escalated after TMP accused BJP of neglecting tribal welfare and making undemocratic remarks against CM Manik Saha.
What are the key demands of the TMP?
TMP is demanding the identification and deportation of illegal migrants and the implementation of the tripartite agreement for indigenous rights.
What is the significance of the TTAADC elections?
The TTAADC elections are crucial for both BJP and TMP as they aim to solidify their influence over the tribal electorate in Tripura.
How has BJP responded to TMP's allegations?
BJP leaders have vehemently denied the allegations, asserting their commitment to tribal welfare and accusing TMP of distorting historical facts.
What is the historical context of tribal relations in Tripura?
Tripura has experienced ethnic tensions in the past, notably ethnic riots in 1980, which adds complexity to current political dynamics.
