, a ruling ally of BJP, has reaffirmed its demand for a separate state, accusing the Left.){kind=link}
Agartala, Aug 23, 2025:
The Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), a ruling ally of the BJP-led state government, has once again reiterated its demand for a separate state. The party emphasized that it will continue its movement through democratic means while blaming the Left for diluting the cause of the indigenous people.
IPFT stands firm on statehood demand
The IPFT leadership said that the demand for a separate state, carved out of Tripura’s tribal areas, remains its central political agenda. Party leaders noted that the struggle had been ongoing for decades and would not end until the aspirations of indigenous communities were addressed.
They accused the Left parties of deliberately weakening the statehood movement in the past, claiming that tribal rights were sidelined under their rule. According to IPFT leaders, the struggle now needs to be intensified in a democratic and peaceful manner.
Criticism of Left’s role in Tripura politics
Speaking at a public meeting, IPFT leaders said that the Left governments, which ruled Tripura for over two decades, consistently ignored the genuine demands of indigenous people. They alleged that instead of resolving issues of land rights, identity, and development, the Left weakened organizations that fought for tribal rights.
The party argued that the current demand was not against the integrity of Tripura but rather aimed at ensuring social justice and equal development for tribal communities. They also stressed that the movement must remain democratic and avoid violence.
Alliance with BJP under scrutiny
As a partner in the BJP-led state government, the IPFT faces pressure to balance governance with its core demand. While BJP leaders have largely avoided commenting directly on the separate statehood issue, the IPFT has made it clear that it will not abandon its struggle.
The alliance between BJP and IPFT played a decisive role in ending Left dominance in Tripura in 2018. However, differences over statehood have often created tensions within the ruling coalition.
Call for unity among indigenous communities
IPFT leaders urged indigenous organizations to come together and strengthen the statehood movement. They said only a united struggle could pressurize the state and central governments to consider their demands seriously.
The party also highlighted challenges faced by indigenous communities, including unemployment, lack of proper healthcare, and underdevelopment in remote areas. According to IPFT, these issues remain unresolved and justify the demand for a separate state to address them effectively.
Political implications ahead of elections
The reaffirmation of statehood demand comes at a politically sensitive time, as Tripura prepares for upcoming local body elections and eventually the assembly polls. Analysts believe the issue could impact the tribal vote base, which remains crucial for all major parties in the state.
Observers note that while IPFT continues to raise the demand, it faces the challenge of delivering development through governance as part of the ruling coalition. This balancing act will likely shape its political future.
Historical roots of the demand
The call for a separate state has deep historical roots in Tripura’s tribal politics. Several organizations, including earlier fronts before IPFT, have raised similar demands citing protection of tribal identity and autonomy. The demand gained momentum after the formation of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), but many argue the council lacks sufficient powers.
IPFT leaders say that only full-fledged statehood can provide indigenous communities the autonomy and resources needed to address long-standing issues.
Outlook and next steps
The party declared that it would continue mobilizing people through meetings, campaigns, and democratic protests. It assured supporters that it would not compromise on its core agenda even while being part of the government.
The separate statehood demand is expected to remain a central talking point in Tripura politics in the months ahead. With the ruling coalition facing internal differences and the opposition seeking to regain ground, the issue could significantly shape the state’s political discourse.