Tipra Motha Raises Objection to Bishramganj Nagar Panchayat Move
Tipra Motha Party founder and Tripura’s royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya has announced plans to approach the court against the state government. He has alleged that authorities are illegally converting portions of Sixth Schedule district council land into a Nagar Panchayat, violating constitutional safeguards.
Pradyot made the announcement after visiting Bishramganj in Sepahijala district, where he reviewed the demarcation of land belonging to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) in connection with the Bishramganj Nagar Panchayat.
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Meetings Held With District Officials
During his visit, Pradyot held discussions with district officials to understand the basis of the government’s notification. He was joined by TTAADC Chief Executive Member Purna Chandra Jamatia, former CEO C.K. Jamatia, and other senior Tipra Motha leaders.
The delegation met Bishramganj SDM Binky Saha, who also serves as the Executive Officer of the Nagar Panchayat. According to party leaders, the discussions focused on land records, jurisdictional boundaries, and the legal status of the proposed municipal area.
Allegations of Illegal Land Conversion
Pradyot strongly objected to the move, stating that the government lacks the authority to establish a Nagar Panchayat within district council areas protected under the Sixth Schedule.
“The government cannot create a Nagar Panchayat inside district council land. They argue that earlier elections justify this step, but elections cannot legalise an illegal act,” he said.
He further claimed that Tipra Motha possesses official maps and proper documentation proving that the land falls under TTAADC jurisdiction. In contrast, he alleged that the administration relies only on mouja records and past election references.
‘Forceful Occupation of Tribal Land’
Describing the move as a “forceful occupation,” Pradyot said the issue goes beyond politics. According to him, it directly concerns tribal land rights and constitutional protection.
He clarified that his party does not oppose Nagar Panchayats as a form of governance. However, he objected to what he termed as arbitrary and unlawful conversion of tribal council land without consultation or due process.
“Elections may come and go, but no one has the right to take land illegally. People must stay alert and act when their rights are threatened,” he added.
Wider Concerns Over Sixth Schedule Safeguards
Pradyot also cited Nandan Nagar in Agartala as an example of tribal settlements that could face similar risks if such administrative decisions go unchallenged.
Local tribal leaders echoed these concerns and described the Bishramganj issue as part of a larger debate over the implementation of the Sixth Schedule in Tripura. They argued that bypassing legal procedures and community consultation weakens the autonomy granted to tribal areas under the Constitution.
Moreover, leaders warned that such actions could set a precedent that undermines district council authority across the state.
Legal Challenge Expected Soon
Concluding his visit, Pradyot reiterated that the law clearly prohibits the formation of a Nagar Panchayat within district council areas. He confirmed that Tipra Motha will pursue all legal options to protect tribal autonomy.
“This is not just about Bishramganj. It is about defending the Constitution and safeguarding tribal land for future generations,” he said.
The proposed legal challenge is expected to test the limits of administrative authority and clarify the scope of protection offered to Sixth Schedule areas in Tripura. Political observers believe the case could have far-reaching implications for land governance and tribal rights in the state.
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