Tipra Motha Party (TMP) legislator Animesh Debbarma has called for urgent steps to counter rising concerns over illegal infiltration in Tripura. On Saturday, Debbarma submitted a memorandum to Governor Indrasena Reddy, seeking the deployment of a Special Task Force (STF) to address what he termed a “demographic threat” to the indigenous population.
Memorandum Submitted to Governor
Debbarma, the Leader of the Opposition in the Tripura Legislative Assembly, submitted the memorandum on behalf of TMP. He urged the Governor to take immediate and concrete action against illegal immigrants who are allegedly entering Tripura through porous stretches along the 856-km-long India-Bangladesh border.
“Our border remains vulnerable. Local reports and intelligence indicate a steady rise in illegal entries. We demand STF deployment in sensitive regions and thorough verification drives,” Debbarma said after his meeting with the Governor.
Central Government’s Stand Welcomed
Interestingly, the TMP leader praised the central government’s recent directive calling for strict vigilance and coordination between border agencies. “The Centre’s focus on curbing infiltration is welcome. But implementation at the ground level in Tripura has been weak. That’s why we’re demanding direct intervention from the state and central forces,” he added.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently issued advisories to border states, including Tripura, to step up surveillance, install high-tech fencing, and increase night patrolling. More on MHA’s border strategy (external link).
Demand for Border Villages’ Verification
The memorandum also requested a door-to-door verification in specific border villages where sudden demographic shifts have been reported. TMP has cited instances from Unakoti, Dhalai, and parts of South Tripura where suspected infiltrators have allegedly obtained forged documents.
“We believe that voter rolls, ration cards, and Aadhaar data in these zones need immediate cross-verification,” Debbarma emphasized.
Indigenous Identity at Risk, Says TMP
Debbarma reiterated that unchecked infiltration not only affects national security but also threatens Tripura’s indigenous communities. According to him, the cultural, linguistic, and political identity of the Tiprasa people is at stake.
“We are not against any community, but infiltration disturbs the region’s delicate social fabric. Our call is for justice, not division,” he said, urging all parties to support TMP’s stand in the Assembly.
Response from Authorities Awaited
The Tripura government has yet to issue an official response to TMP’s demands. However, insiders suggest that the Home Department may soon convene a high-level meeting to assess border security updates, especially ahead of the monsoon, when infiltration attempts typically increase.
Meanwhile, police officials maintain that border fencing and BSF patrolling have been stepped up in vulnerable regions.
Political Reactions and Wider Implications
TMP’s demand has sparked a fresh wave of political debate. While the BJP dismissed the move as “fear-mongering,” Congress and CPI(M) have supported TMP’s call for stricter border security.
Political observers believe this issue could influence upcoming local body polls and shape Tripura’s broader discourse on identity, security, and governance.
Looking Ahead
As infiltration concerns rise across the Northeast, states like Tripura remain on the frontline. TMP’s push for STF deployment could set a precedent if acted upon by the Governor and State Cabinet.
Stay informed on issues shaping Tripura’s future. Share your views and follow local developments as the demand for tighter border security gains momentum.