The Bharatiya Janata Party’s tribal wing, Janajati Morcha, is facing mounting discontent after the sudden cancellation of its World Indigenous Day celebration in Agartala. The programme, billed as a key outreach to tribal voters, was called off at the last minute, reportedly due to unforeseen circumstances.
The decision has been viewed internally as a setback in the tribal belt, with political observers noting that it handed a strategic advantage to Tipra Motha, the BJP’s former ally and current rival in the hills. Tipra Motha went ahead with its pre-scheduled Homchang (torch) rallies across Tripura, attracting large crowds and strengthening its image as the leading voice for tribal rights.
Sources within the BJP admit that the Janajati Morcha has remained largely inactive in recent months, allowing Tipra Motha to consolidate its influence in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). While the BJP and Tipra Motha share power in the state government, BJP’s TTAADC members sit in opposition, leaving them with little control over the council’s functioning.
Grassroots workers have also expressed frustration over being sidelined in welfare schemes. Senior party figures say this neglect is fuelling discontent, with some leaders considering stepping down from political roles to return to social work.
With TTAADC elections due next year, the BJP’s tribal strategy remains unclear. Insiders say the party has yet to decide whether to contest alone or forge another alliance with Tipra Motha. A senior BJP leader, requesting anonymity, warned that the party risks losing ground gained in the 2023 assembly polls if urgent corrective steps are not taken.
“Without a clear plan for the tribal belt, we will struggle to retain our seats,” the leader cautioned.