How Are Tripura BJP’s Leaders Strengthening Their Base in Tribal Areas?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A six-member delegation from Tripura's BJP met with National General Secretary B L Santhosh to strategize on enhancing their organizational base in tribal areas ahead of upcoming elections. This meeting reflects the BJP's commitment to strengthening ties with tribal communities and reducing dependence on regional parties.
Key Takeaways
- Meeting to Enhance Tribal Engagement: The BJP is actively seeking to strengthen its ties with tribal communities ahead of elections.
- Support from Leadership: National leaders like B L Santhosh are backing efforts to boost the party's organizational presence.
- Increased Honorarium: The monthly honorarium for tribal community leaders has been raised to garner support.
- Focus on Development: The BJP emphasizes socio-economic development initiatives for tribal welfare.
- Addressing Challenges: The party aims to reduce reliance on regional parties for support in tribal regions.
Agartala, Aug 11 (NationPress) A delegation of six tribal leaders from the ruling BJP in Tripura convened a meeting with the party’s National General Secretary (Organisation) B L Santhosh in New Delhi on Monday to address issues related to tribal organizational matters, a party representative disclosed.
A BJP spokesperson in Agartala revealed that the tribal leaders, spearheaded by Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma, deliberated on the upcoming elections for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), scheduled for early next year.
The politically significant 30-member TTAADC is currently under the governance of the BJP’s ally Tipra Motha Party (TMP). The ruling BJP is keen to fortify its organizational presence within the TTAADC, which covers two-thirds of Tripura's 10,491 sq km area, housing over 1.2 million individuals, approximately 84% of whom are from tribal communities.
“During the meeting, tribal leaders thoroughly explored strategies to enhance the party's tribal wing, Janajati Morcha, and its political initiatives in tribal-populated regions. B L Santhosh pledged comprehensive support to strengthen the party's organization in remote tribal areas,” the party leader stated.
In a bid to reduce its reliance on tribal-focused parties and their affiliates, such as the Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) and the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), the BJP has intensified efforts to bolster its presence in tribal regions across Tripura. Tribals represent one-third of Tripura’s four million populace.
Recently, the BJP administration elevated the monthly honorarium for tribal community leaders to garner support from the tribal populace. Chief Minister Manik Saha announced via X, “In a landmark decision by the State Cabinet, the monthly honorarium for tribal community leaders (Samajpatis) has been raised from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000. This reflects the government's dedication to acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the Samajpatis in tribal communities.”
A prominent tribal figure within the BJP remarked that, as a national party, they consistently strive to solidify their standing among tribal constituents.
“While we hold a national perspective and aim, regional parties possess varied ambitions, which can lead to complicated situations. Hence, we endeavor to reinforce our influence among the tribal communities,” stated the leader, who preferred anonymity.
He also noted that the Central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with BJP administrations in various states, have initiated numerous schemes aimed at the overall socio-economic advancement of the over 110 million tribal residents in India.
As the BJP escalates its organizational activities in tribal regions, TMP members targeted BJP functionaries on two occasions last month in Khowai and West Tripura districts, resulting in injuries to at least ten individuals.
In one incident, TMP members assaulted BJP functionaries gathered in Khowai district during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 'Mann Ki Baat' program on July 27, injuring nine party workers.
On July 31, TMP activists attacked BJP members at Jampuijala in the West Tripura district while they were conducting a meeting, leaving one BJP member critically injured and requiring hospitalization.
On July 17, the BJP convened a pivotal meeting called 'Janajati Chintan Shivir', which included all elected and organizational tribal leaders. Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, state Party President Rajib Bhattacharjee, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma, tribal leader and former MP Rebati Tripura, along with all tribal MLAs and TTAADC members, participated in this daylong gathering.
“This meeting was aimed at fortifying the BJP's organizational foundation among tribal communities,” Bhattacharjee, also a Rajya Sabha member, informed the media.
Point of View
It is clear that the BJP's efforts in Tripura highlight a broader strategy to consolidate power among tribal communities, a demographic that significantly influences regional politics. Their approach, while aiming to reduce reliance on regional parties, must navigate the complex socio-political landscape of tribal dynamics. The focus on socio-economic development initiatives is essential in building trust and support within these communities.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the BJP delegation's meeting?
The purpose was to discuss strategies for strengthening the BJP's organizational presence among tribal communities in Tripura as they prepare for upcoming elections.
Who led the delegation?
The delegation was led by Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma.
What is the significance of the TTAADC?
The TTAADC is crucial as it governs a significant portion of Tripura and is politically important, with the ruling party aiming to enhance its influence there.
How does the BJP plan to engage with tribal communities?
The BJP plans to engage with tribal communities through increased honorarium for community leaders and strengthening its tribal wing, Janajati Morcha.
What challenges does the BJP face in Tripura?
The BJP faces challenges from regional parties like TMP and IPFT, which complicate their efforts to consolidate power among tribal voters.
