The Tipra Motha Party (TMP), under the leadership of former royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barman, is poised to emerge as a formidable political force, particularly in crucial tribal areas, presenting a substantial challenge to the ruling BJP, the opposition Left parties, and the Congress in the upcoming 2024 elections.
In the Tripura assembly, where one-third of the seats are reserved for tribals, and one of the two Lok Sabha constituencies caters to tribal representation, the tribal vote holds significant sway in the northeastern state's electoral landscape.
In the February 16 assembly elections, TMP, a party rooted in tribal interests, secured 13 seats and 19.69 percent of the votes, securing the second position after the ruling BJP. The party's demand for a 'Greater Tipraland State' or a separate state status has resonated strongly among the tribal population, catapulting TMP to a prominent position and relegating the CPI-M-led Left parties and the Congress to the third and fourth positions, respectively.
TMP's call for a separate state has been a key factor in consolidating tribal votes, leading to a realignment of political dynamics in Tripura. This demand gained prominence after TMP captured the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) in April 2021.
The Congress, which has a historical presence in Tripura, has faced challenges in dealing with regional parties like TMP. Despite recognizing the urgency of seat-sharing talks in crucial states, including Tripura, the Congress is mindful of the delicate alliances it needs to navigate.
TMP's commitment to the 'Greater Tipraland' demand remains steadfast, with the party founder emphasizing the need for tribal empowerment in education, health, and other essential areas.
While the BJP, cognizant of the tribal vote's significance, has sought TMP's collaboration, the party declined ministerial positions in the BJP-led ministry. Instead, TMP leaders conveyed their demand to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who assured them of appointing an interlocutor to study and resolve their demands within three months.
The Centre's envoy and advisor to the Ministry of Home Affairs held discussions with TMP leaders on November 28, underlining the party's persistence in pushing for their demands.
TMP's strength and popularity were showcased through a mega rally in TTAADC headquarters in October, with Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma addressing the gathering. Sangma emphasized the need for unity among tribal communities in the northeast to protect their culture, language, and traditions.
TMP's leader, Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barman, has demonstrated personal commitment by selling royal properties to fund agitations for tribal interests. TMP is also advocating for the introduction of Roman scripts for the tribal language, Kokborok, at all academic levels.
The party's focus on realistic issues, combined with its commitment to tribal welfare, has positioned TMP as a significant player in Tripura politics, challenging conventional political dynamics and emphasizing the importance of addressing tribal concerns in the region.
(With Agency Inputs)
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