Bishramganj Nagar Panchayat faces controversy as SDM denies ADC land inclusion while TIPRA Motha disputes the claim, citing settlement maps. Official boundary verification and legal action may determine the outcome of this politically sensitive land dispute.
The controversy surrounding the formation of the Bishramganj Nagar Panchayat has intensified, shifting attention toward official boundary verification as conflicting claims emerge between the local administration and TIPRA Motha over alleged encroachment on Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) land.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Bishramganj, Binki Saha, has categorically denied allegations that any land under the jurisdiction of the Autonomous District Council has been included in the newly formed Nagar Panchayat. Addressing concerns raised by tribal leaders, the SDM stated that only three Gram Panchayats—Chhechrimai, Barjala, and Bishramganj—have been merged to constitute the urban local body, and none of these areas fall within ADC boundaries.
Speaking after a meeting held at the Bishramganj Dak Bungalow with senior TIPRA Motha leaders, including party chief Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, the SDM emphasized that the formation process strictly adhered to legal and administrative norms. She assured that no ADC land was taken and asserted that the issue would be conclusively resolved once official maps are cross-verified.
“We have clearly assured all stakeholders that no ADC area has been included in the Nagar Panchayat. This will be proven beyond doubt once the official maps are made available and examined,” the SDM said.
To address persistent objections, the administration has decided to compare land records and maps from the Settlement Department with those maintained by the TTAADC. According to the SDM, any discrepancies identified during this verification process will be rectified as per established procedures. “If there is even a minor error, corrective measures will be taken immediately,” she added.
However, TIPRA Motha has firmly rejected the administration’s assurances. Party chief Pradyot Kishore Debbarma cited the 1994 settlement map, claiming it clearly indicates violations of ADC boundaries. He maintained that the tribal population is well aware of its traditional land demarcations and warned that administrative reassurances alone would not resolve the matter.
“Tiprasa people know where their land lies. Maps from the past clearly show the boundaries, and we will not accept any dilution of ADC land,” Debbarma stated, adding that the party would pursue legal remedies if necessary.
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The meeting, which was also attended by TTAADC Chief Executive Member Purna Chandra Jamatia, the Charilam MLA, and several senior TIPRA Motha leaders, concluded without any consensus. As tensions remain high, heavy security deployment has been reported in Bishramganj market and surrounding areas to prevent any potential unrest.
With both sides standing their ground, the dispute has entered a critical phase. The outcome now hinges on the verification of official maps, which is expected to play a decisive role in determining the future of the Bishramganj Nagar Panchayat. Until clarity emerges, the boundary issue continues to remain a sensitive and politically charged flashpoint in Tripura’s local governance landscape.
