Reangs community members in Amarpur protest Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha’s remarks about their migration from Bangladesh, demanding respect and clarification over their indigenous identity during a peaceful rally under tight police security.
Members of the Reang community took to the streets in Amarpur on Monday to express strong resentment over Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha’s recent remarks about their ethnic origin. The protest followed comments made by the Chief Minister during the Hajagiri Festival at Bogafa, where he reportedly stated that the Reang community had migrated to Tripura from the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.
The remark, which many community members found offensive, sparked immediate outrage among Reang leaders and organizations. On Monday morning, hundreds of protesters gathered at the Chandibari school ground under the leadership of Aashiram Reang and other prominent community figures. Holding placards and chanting slogans, they marched through Amarpur market before returning to the same ground where the rally began.
Speaking to media persons after the rally, Aashiram Reang said that the Chief Minister’s comment was “deeply disappointing and hurtful” to the community’s sentiments. “The Chief Minister is supposed to be the guardian of all communities living in Tripura. When such statements come from him, it shakes our faith and respect,” he said.
He further added that the Reang, also known as Bru, are an indigenous community with a long history in Tripura and the surrounding northeastern region. “We are not outsiders. Our ancestors have lived here for centuries. Questioning our origin or linking us to migration from Bangladesh is not only historically inaccurate but also an insult to our identity,” Aashiram stated.
Throughout the protest, the atmosphere remained tense but peaceful. The Tripura Police deployed a strong security presence across Amarpur town to prevent any untoward incidents. Officials confirmed that the rally concluded without any violence or obstruction of public movement.
Community Outrage over Historical Misrepresentation
Many local organizations and rights groups supporting the Reang community expressed solidarity with the protest. They argued that statements made by political leaders carry significant weight and can influence public perception, especially regarding the state’s ethnic and tribal composition.
A senior community elder remarked, “The Chief Minister must understand that our people have been recognized as one of the oldest indigenous tribes in Tripura. Our culture, language, and customs are unique and rooted in this land.”
The Reang, who primarily inhabit the South, North, and Dhalai districts of Tripura, are known for their rich cultural traditions, including the Hajagiri dance, which is widely regarded as one of the state’s most iconic folk performances. Ironically, the controversy erupted during the same festival that celebrates Reang cultural identity.
Political Sensitivity and Government Reaction
Political analysts have described the episode as a reminder of Tripura’s complex ethnic balance, where words from leaders can easily stir emotions among various indigenous groups. While the Chief Minister has not yet issued a clarification, sources within the administration suggested that the remarks were not intended to offend but to reference historical migration patterns in a broader cultural context.
Opposition parties, however, have seized the opportunity to criticize the government. A local opposition leader stated, “When communities that have contributed to the state’s identity feel insulted, it becomes the duty of the leadership to clarify and restore faith.”
A Call for Respect and Understanding
The protest concluded with a peaceful appeal to the state government, urging the Chief Minister to withdraw or clarify his statement publicly. The Reang leaders also demanded recognition of their historical and cultural rights to avoid similar controversies in the future.
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As Tripura continues to celebrate its multicultural heritage, the episode serves as a reminder of the importance of sensitivity and accuracy in representing indigenous communities. For the Reang, the protest was not just about a remark—it was about reaffirming their identity, pride, and rightful place in the state’s history.
