Chakma students in Tripura demand an apology after a Tipra Motha-linked village council chairman allegedly made racial and linguistic slurs, sparking concerns over ethnic harmony, constitutional rights, and respect for indigenous communities.
The Tripura Chakma Students’ Association (TCSA) has strongly condemned alleged racially offensive remarks made by Sukumar Debbarma, the chairman of the Narkel Kunja Village Council, accusing him of targeting the Chakma community with discriminatory and insensitive comments. The controversy has sparked widespread concern over ethnic harmony and linguistic rights in Tripura, prompting demands for an unconditional public apology and disciplinary action.
Addressing a press conference at the Agartala Press Club on Wednesday, TCSA central committee president Jiban Basu Chakma alleged that Debbarma, who is associated with the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), made derogatory statements while referring to Chakma traders operating in the region. According to the student body, the remarks were not only offensive but also reflected a deeply troubling racial mindset.
Jiban Basu Chakma stated that a video of the incident, which has since gone viral on social media platforms, shows Debbarma allegedly referring to local traders who do not speak the Kokborok language as “Bangladeshi.” The TCSA leadership termed the comment racially insensitive and harmful, asserting that such language unfairly questions the identity and belonging of a constitutionally recognized indigenous community.
The association further alleged that Debbarma made objectionable remarks concerning physical features, reportedly stating that “those who do not have well-formed noses should learn the Kokborok language.” TCSA leaders described the comment as demeaning and discriminatory, arguing that it reinforces racial stereotypes and undermines the dignity of indigenous communities.
According to the TCSA, the incident took place on November 29, and despite the seriousness of the remarks, no formal apology or clarification has been issued so far. The student body has therefore demanded an unconditional public apology from Sukumar Debbarma, stating that silence on the matter could further inflame social tensions.
Speaking at the press conference, Jiban Basu Chakma emphasized that learning multiple languages is beneficial in a culturally diverse society like Tripura. However, he strongly objected to any attempt to impose a particular language on a community. He referred to constitutional provisions that protect linguistic diversity and guarantee every citizen the right to preserve and promote their mother tongue.
“Tripura is home to 19 indigenous tribes, each with its own unique language, culture, and identity,” Jiban Basu said. “Not all tribal communities speak Kokborok as their primary language. Communities such as the Chakma, Mog, and Mizo have distinct linguistic traditions that deserve equal respect.”
The TCSA leaders warned that comments linking language proficiency with ethnic legitimacy could have serious consequences for social harmony. They stressed that branding citizens as outsiders based on language or appearance is dangerous and contradicts the inclusive spirit of the Constitution.
The association also appealed directly to Tipra Motha Party founder and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, urging him to take immediate disciplinary action against the village council chairman. The student leaders argued that political parties must ensure that individuals holding public positions do not propagate views that demean or marginalize any community.
“Tolerating such remarks sends the wrong message,” Jiban Basu Chakma said. “Leaders with a derogatory mindset should not be encouraged, as their words have the potential to divide communities and disturb long-standing coexistence.”
The TCSA reiterated its commitment to peaceful democratic protest and stated that it would continue to raise its voice through constitutional means if corrective steps are not taken. The organization underlined that its demand is not driven by political motives but by the need to safeguard dignity, equality, and mutual respect among Tripura’s diverse communities.
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Several office bearers of the association were present at the press conference, including Assistant Education Secretary Ratra Prabha and Religious Secretary Dipankar Chakma, along with other representatives. They expressed solidarity with the affected community members and urged authorities to act responsibly to prevent the spread of hate speech.
As the video continues to circulate online, the incident has triggered broader discussions on social media regarding racial sensitivity, language rights, and the responsibilities of local leaders. Observers note that how political parties and authorities respond to this issue could play a crucial role in shaping inter-community relations in the state.
