Agartala: May 26: Tipra Motha Party (TMP) founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarman on Monday called on his party’s legislators to begin a constituency-wise drive to identify illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. Speaking in a live stream on social media, Debbarman stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has already instructed state governments to take action against illegal immigrants and begin special detection and deportation drives.
“We saw this problem long ago. Illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants are not just staying here; they are drawing rations, getting voter ID cards, and using Indian resources. In 2028, they might even influence Tripura’s political outcome,” Debbarman warned. He emphasized the urgency of protecting the rights of indigenous people and ensuring that government resources are not misused by non-citizens.
Amid ongoing political tensions, Debbarman also addressed the recent controversy involving District Magistrate of Gomati, Tarit Kanti Chakma. On Sunday night, Debbarman and the Chief Executive Member of the ADC went to the DM’s residence to discuss development projects in Ampi and surrounding areas. However, the DM reportedly refused to meet him, an act that has drawn sharp criticism on social media and sparked ethnic sensitivities.
Clarifying his stance, Debbarman urged his supporters not to generalize the incident. “This was an act of an individual, not a reflection of the entire Chakma community. I have Chakma friends and supporters, and I have always stood with them—even when they were targeted in Bangladesh,” he said.
The incident has fueled tensions in Tripura, with the Tipra Motha youth wing demanding the DM’s removal. Debbarman’s dual message—calling for action against illegal immigrants while appealing for communal harmony—has set the tone for a politically charged week in the state.
