In a significant turn of events in Tripura’s political landscape, two legislators from the opposition TIPRA Motha Party (TMP) have been sworn in as ministers, marking a notable expansion of the state’s coalition government. Animesh Debbarma and Brishaketu Debbarma took the oath of office and secrecy at a solemn ceremony administered by Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu at Raj Bhavan.
While Animesh Debbarma will be made full minister Brishaketu Debbarma will assume charge as Minister of State.
The swearing-in ceremony, held in the Durbar Hall of Raj Bhavan, was attended by Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha, his council of ministers, and civil and security officials.
Animesh Debbarma, who previously held the position of Opposition Leader, stepped down from his role before assuming the ministerial portfolio.
Both the newly appointed ministers pledged their commitment in ‘Kokborok’ language.
The induction of the two TMP representatives follows prolonged negotiations spanning over a year, culminating in an agreement among the Center, the Tripura government, and the TMP.
The TMP, emerging as a political force in the state, contested the February 16 Assembly polls with a fervent call for the establishment of ‘Greater Tipraland’. Securing 13 seats in the assembly and a commendable vote share, the party ascended to the position of the second-largest party in Tripura.
Post-election, the TMP intensified its advocacy for ‘Greater Tipraland,’ a contentious demand met with resistance from major political factions including the ruling BJP, Left Front, Congress, and Trinamool Congress.
The TIPRA Motha’s decision might have shocked the Tiprasa people since they had trusted Pradyot Kishore Debbarma for a secured future and an all-round development but now they have to face the reality and accept the decision that came four days after the signing of a tripartite agreement between Government of India, Government of Tripura and TIPRA Motha.
In the run up of the 2018 assembly elections also raising the Tipraland demand and fomenting passion amongst the Janajati people which even led to naked protests in Baramura NC Debbarma signed an agreement with the central government on January 5, 2018 which promised a Modality committee—which did not materialise. Nevertheless, NC Debbarma claimed it was a great victory for the Janajati people and joined the BJP and got ministerial berths. This time also similar story is being repeated, though Pradyot Kishore always castigated other regional parties for deceiving the indigenous people for ministerial positions and other benefits.
