The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tripura is confronting a significant internal political crisis. Two of its crucial tribal-based alliance partners have launched a fierce campaign demanding the removal of Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma from the council of ministers.
Coalition Partners Unite in Protest
The controversy ignited after Minister Bikash Debbarma made what are being described as inflammatory comments targeting tribal communities during a public rally. The Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), a key ally in the state government, has threatened to launch a widespread state-wide agitation against the minister.
Similarly, TIPRA Motha, another vital coalition partner, has strongly condemned Debbarma's statements. In a rare show of unity, they have joined opposition parties, including the CPI(M) and the Congress, in calling for his immediate ouster from the cabinet.
Street Protests and Village Tensions
The political disagreement has spilled onto the streets. Activists from TIPRA Motha organized demonstrations outside Minister Bikash Debbarma's ancestral home located in Krishnapur, within the Khowai district. The protesters were unequivocal in their demands, calling for his resignation.
They issued a stern warning, stating that the minister would face eviction from his own village unless he tenders an unconditional public apology to the tribal communities he offended. This local-level action underscores the depth of personal and political offense taken.
The Remarks That Sparked the Fire
The root of the crisis lies in comments made by Debbarma at a rally attended by Chief Minister Manik Saha and other senior cabinet members. While criticizing the TIPRA Motha party, the minister used highly provocative language.
He stated that TIPRA Motha "should be torn apart like a poultry rooster," a remark that has triggered outrage across the political spectrum in the state. The use of such imagery has been deemed disrespectful and aggressive by his allies and opponents alike.
Allies Issue Stern Reminders and Warnings
Swapan Debbarma, the general secretary of IPFT, publicly condemned the minister's choice of words, labeling them as completely unacceptable. He warned that such rhetoric has the potential to severely disrupt Tripura's traditionally democratic and peaceful political atmosphere.
In a clear message to the BJP leadership, Swapan Debbarma emphasized the instrumental role his party played in ending the 25-year-long rule of the Left Front in the state. He reminded the BJP of the coalition's significance for its continued hold on power.
He further questioned the BJP's governance record, pointing out that despite being in power for seven years, the party still feels the need for constant voter pressure, which he interprets as a failure to deliver on promises. Crucially, he highlighted the importance of the Tiprasa (indigenous tribal) vote bank, especially for the 20 assembly seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes, as being fundamental for any party wishing to govern Tripura.
Election Tensions Loom Large
This political storm arrives at a critical juncture as Tripura prepares for the upcoming elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). The outcome of all 28 seats in the TTAADC is of immense political importance.
The internal strife within the ruling coalition could significantly impact electoral strategies and voter sentiment, making the resolution of this crisis a top priority for the state BJP leadership. The demand for Minister Debbarma's removal now stands as a major test of the alliance's cohesion and the BJP's ability to manage its partners.
