Agartala, Aug 23, 2025 – The Tripura Congress has asserted its contribution to tribal development in the Northeast while strongly criticising rival parties for ignoring the needs of indigenous communities. Party leaders used the occasion of ADC Day to highlight their role in shaping welfare initiatives and demanded urgent passage of the 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill.
Congress Highlights Its Tribal Development Role
Tripura Congress president Asish Kumar Saha claimed that the Congress had played a historic role in strengthening tribal rights. He said that the establishment of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) was possible only due to Congress efforts.
Saha stressed that the council remains a pillar of self-governance for indigenous people. He argued that Congress governments in the past had worked to ensure representation and welfare measures for tribal communities across the Northeast.
Criticism of Rivals
The Congress leader launched sharp attacks on both the BJP and the Left. He alleged that the Left Front government weakened the authority of the ADC by not devolving adequate power and resources.
Saha also accused the ruling BJP-IPFT coalition of using tribal issues as a political tool without delivering on promises. He claimed that the current government has failed to address unemployment, healthcare gaps, and infrastructure challenges in tribal areas.
Call for Passage of 125th Amendment Bill
One of the key highlights of Saha’s speech was his demand for the 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which seeks greater autonomy for tribal councils. The bill, if passed, would enhance the financial and administrative powers of autonomous councils in the Northeast.
Saha said the bill is essential for empowering institutions like the TTAADC. He urged the central government to ensure its passage without delay.
Linking Past Achievements to Present Challenges
The Congress claimed that welfare initiatives such as the expansion of healthcare, education, and rural infrastructure were strengthened during its rule. Leaders argued that the Congress legacy remains visible in several tribal belts of Tripura.
However, they warned that the achievements risk being undermined due to neglect by the current government. Saha pointed to rising poverty levels, poor access to basic services, and lack of livelihood opportunities in tribal villages.
ADC Day as a Political Platform
ADC Day, observed to commemorate the creation of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, has increasingly become a platform for political messaging. For the Congress, this year’s celebration was used to reinforce its image as the champion of indigenous rights.
By reclaiming credit for the formation of the ADC, the party signaled its intent to rebuild its support base in tribal areas. Tribal votes remain crucial in shaping Tripura’s electoral outcomes.
Congress leaders used the occasion to reaffirm their historical association with the tribal cause. They urged communities to recall the party’s role in creating institutions that gave tribals autonomy and recognition.
Wider Implications for Northeast Politics
The statement also holds relevance beyond Tripura. Congress has been attempting to rebuild its political base across the Northeast, where tribal communities form a significant vote bank. By crediting itself for developmental gains, the party is trying to counter the BJP’s growing influence.
Observers believe this move could resonate among communities who feel their aspirations are not adequately addressed. However, the challenge for Congress will be to translate its historical contributions into a convincing agenda for the future.
Call for Renewed Tribal Empowerment
Saha concluded by urging the Centre to prioritize the passage of the 125th Amendment Bill and provide more financial autonomy to councils. He said Congress will continue to raise the demand both inside and outside Parliament until tribal rights are fully safeguarded.
He stressed that indigenous people must not be left behind in the race for development. According to him, Congress remains committed to ensuring equality, justice, and empowerment for tribal communities in Tripura and across the Northeast.