Agartala, Oct 16: The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tripura has defended Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha following controversy over his recent remarks on the Reang community, which triggered strong reactions from BJP’s ally, the Tipra Motha Party.
The BJP’s tribal wing, Janajati Morcha, claimed that the Chief Minister’s comments were historically accurate and had been misinterpreted for political gain ahead of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections. The party expressed concern over protests that allegedly featured “unparliamentary slogans” and even references to the CM’s origins, which they deemed offensive.
“In some rallies, protestors referred to the Chief Minister as being from Bangladesh. This is unacceptable. A Chief Minister serves all communities—tribals and Bengalis alike,” said BJP State General Secretary Bipin Debbarma.
He criticized Tipra Motha leaders, including MLAs and MDCs, for allegedly spearheading the protests. On Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarman’s threat to exit the alliance, Debbarma said, “Our doors are always open for dialogue. If he has concerns, he should speak with the CM, state leadership or the central leadership in Delhi. Whether to stay in the alliance is his personal decision.”
Meanwhile, BJP Youth Wing Vice-President and MDC Sanjib Reang defended the CM, stating that Saha’s remarks were based on historical facts, which have been distorted for political mileage. He urged Tipra leaders to consult sources like the Tribal Research Institute (TRI) website and Rajmala, the royal chronicles of Tripura, for accurate information.
MDC Bimal Chakma also backed the BJP, highlighting the party’s role in honoring the Manikya dynasty, countering Debbarman’s recent criticism of national parties.
