Pradyot Kishore Debbarman, supremo of the Tipra Motha, on Sunday made it clear that he refused to enter into a pre-poll alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party for the upcoming Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council elections, stating that such a move would have compromised the party’s ideological foundation despite the risk of internal setbacks.
Addressing party workers through a social media livestream after days of silence, Debbarman hinted at personal distress over recent developments. “I have been silent for several days. When I am hurt, I become silent,” he said, indicating the emotional weight behind his decision.
He revealed that sections within the party had urged him to forge an alliance with the BJP, arguing that it could improve electoral prospects and ease financial challenges. However, he stood firm, asserting that aligning with another party would have weakened Tipra Motha’s core political commitments. “Had we gone for an alliance, our ideological foundation would have suffered,” he stated.
Debbarman acknowledged that his decision could lead to organisational strain, including possible defections. “I anticipated that the party would be affected and some leaders might leave. But I hold no personal grievances. People move for opportunities,” he said, adopting a pragmatic stance.
Highlighting the challenges of ticket distribution, he noted that nearly 300 aspirants had sought nominations for just 28 seats, expressing regret over not being able to accommodate many loyal workers.
Reflecting on his journey, Debbarman said he had built the party “brick by brick” after leaving the Congress, with a focus on addressing long-standing issues faced by indigenous communities. He reiterated the importance of safeguarding constitutional rights and implementing the Tiprasa Accord.
On the electoral front, he admitted that contesting independently would be tough, particularly against better-funded opponents. Responding to remarks by Chief Minister Manik Saha, he said development should precede electoral support.
He concluded with an appeal for peaceful elections, urging supporters to avoid violence and reaffirming that Tipra Motha’s primary alliance remains with the people.
