New Delhi, Sep 10: Tipra Motha Party founder and supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarman on Tuesday declared he was unafraid of central agencies and would willingly go to jail if targeted. Addressing a rally at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar to press for the constitutional implementation of the Tiprasa accord, Debbarman said, “My silence doesn’t mean fear. If you want, unleash the ED or CBI. I am happy to go to jail.”
Expressing frustration at the Centre’s inaction, Debbarman recalled that even when Congress leader Ashok Bhattacharjee opposed the creation of the Tripura Autonomous District Council, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi overruled objections and ensured its establishment. “Today, the Union government faces the same dilemma. The Home Minister must take a firm stand like Indira Gandhi once did,” he asserted.
The rally marked the culmination of activist David Murasingh’s 2,500 km foot march from Tripura to Delhi. Debbarman praised ordinary citizens for supporting Murasingh’s journey, adding that his own 2023 election campaign was similarly funded by the people. “My loyalty and that of my MLAs will always remain with the people. I can never shift loyalties,” he said.
Taking aim at the Left, Debbarman alleged that his family suffered under CPIM rule, with properties seized and voices suppressed. Responding to critics, he said, “A tenant can never become an owner in the long run.”
Announcing future plans, Debbarman said he would launch a grassroots campaign next month, visiting every village under the banner of “Thansa” (unity). He pledged not to use party flags, but only the national flag, to unite people across political lines.
The rally was attended by NPP leader James Sangma, several North East political leaders, and Tipra Motha MLAs and MDCs, who extended their solidarity.
