In the midst of escalating tensions surrounding the Janajati Suraksha Mancha (JSM) rally scheduled for Christmas, Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, founder of Tipra Motha and a prominent political figure, has called for restraint among the tribal communities. The JSM has organized a rally demanding the removal of converted tribals from Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, a move that has sparked concerns about potential religious conflicts akin to those seen in Manipur.
Pradyot, addressing the situation in an audio message, cautioned against falling into the trap of divisive tactics and urged the tribal population to maintain a calm and composed stance. He highlighted the danger of communal discord and emphasized the importance of peaceful resolution over reacting with anger.
“Some people are trying to make Tiprasa fight Tiprasa on December 25 in the name of religion, just like brothers killed brothers in Manipur…they want us to be angry, discontented, and they want our tension and stress to go up. When we become angry, we might take some wrong steps. I do not want you to take any such step,” Pradyot stated.
He appealed to the tribal community to reject negativity, hatred, ego, and greed, emphasizing that these elements would only contribute to their impoverishment. Pradyot advocated for unity, love, and sharing, asserting that these values would lead to progress.
The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, refrained from commenting on the proposed rally, prompting criticism from the Opposition. However, Pradyot’s call for calm transcends political lines, aiming to foster unity and understanding among the tribal populace.
In response to the controversy, the Indigenous Nationalist Party of Twipra (INPT), a member of Tipra Motha, expressed strong opposition to the JSM rally, foreseeing potential rifts within the tribal society. Additionally, veteran tribal leader Srotoranjan Khisha denounced the demand to delist converted tribals, labeling it as anti-constitutional and calling for a rejection of such divisive activities.
Both the CPI(M) and Congress parties also condemned the JSM’s demand, viewing it as an attempt to sow ethnic discord and communal division among the people. As tensions simmer, Pradyot’s message of peace and unity stands as a crucial call for maintaining harmony in Tripura during the festive season.
