Tipra Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarma drew a massive gathering at the Swami Vivekananda Ground, earlier known as Astabol Ground. Moreover, he revived his call for ‘Thansa’ and renewed his push for Greater Tipraland. A large number of tribal supporters attended the rally, and several regional leaders from the Northeast joined him. Among them was Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma.
Pradyot Highlights Obstacles
During his speech, Pradyot Kishore Manikya said the party had faced many hurdles in getting permission for the venue. He argued that national parties such as Congress and CPI(M) face no such issues. However, when regional or indigenous groups plan rallies, several problems suddenly appear. “We overcame these obstacles through “Thansa“. Therefore, this rally is being held peacefully today,” he told the crowd.
Read More: ABSU Hails Historic Release of Bodo-Language Constitution
Criticism of Media Coverage
Pradyot then deviated from his prepared speech and criticised sections of the local media. According to him, many of his statements are often “twisted or tweaked”. He also hinted that non-indigenous groups control parts of the media, which, in his view, affects fair coverage. Consequently, he warned supporters that they might again see distorted reports.
Warning Against National Parties
Earlier, Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma had raised concerns about regional parties weakening under national influence. Pradyot echoed this point. He avoided naming the BJP directly; however, he cited examples such as the Shiromani Akali Dal in Punjab, the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra, and the Bodoland party in Assam. He argued that these parties lost influence after aligning too closely with national forces. Therefore, he stressed the need to protect Tipra Motha’s identity and independence.
Tributes to Tribal Leaders
Pradyot Ji also paid tribute to veteran leader Bijay Kumar Hrangkhawl, who was present at the rally. Additionally, he remembered late TUJS leaders like Shyama Charan Tripura, Nagendra Jamatya, Drau Kumar Reang, Debabrata Kolo, and Rabindra Debbarma. He recalled their struggles in meeting leaders in Delhi and Agartala. In fact, he said their challenges reflect many issues that still exist today.
Meanwhile, the massive crowd energised Pradyot. He moved across the stage and repeated that the dream of Tipraland and Greater Tipraland would one day be fulfilled. His remarks received thunderous applause. However, he expressed disappointment that the IPFT did not attend the rally.
To reach out to minority communities, he also greeted a small group with “As-salamu alaikum”. Although brief, he said it was meant to show inclusiveness.
Conrad Sangma Calls Pradyot ‘Bubagra’
Earlier in the programme, Conrad Sangma addressed the crowd. He referred to Pradyot as “Bubagra” and predicted that he might become the next “Maharaja of Tripura”. Moreover, he highlighted the discrimination youths from the Northeast face in Delhi and other cities. Therefore, he called for united action to address these long-standing issues.
Northeast Leaders Stress Unity
Several other leaders also spoke at the event. They included:
- James P.K. Sangma, Working President of NPP
- Mmhonlumo Kikon, former Nagaland minister
- Daniel Langthasa, founder of Peoples Party of Assam
- Ajoy Edwards, founder-president of Gorkha Party of Darjeeling
- R.K. Meghen, senior leader from Manipur
- Hemochandra Singh, former Speaker of the Manipur Assembly
All of them praised the growing unity among Northeastern states. Additionally, they emphasised the importance of the ‘One Northeast, One Voice’ platform. They said the region’s linguistic and cultural diversity should be viewed as a strength. Consequently, they pledged to continue their joint struggle for better socio-economic rights and stronger political representation.
Also Read: Assam Minister Warns New Teachers Against Broker Network Interference