Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Kishore Debbarman may move the Supreme Court over delayed Village Council elections in Tripura. He criticized the State Election Commission’s inaction and condemned recent political violence, asserting that tribal representation and democratic rights cannot be sacrificed for political convenience.
Tipra Motha Party (TMP) founder and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Debbarman on Monday expressed serious concern over the prolonged delay in holding Village Council (VC) elections in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), hinting that his party is preparing to approach the Supreme Court to ensure timely polls and tribal representation.
Speaking to the media outside the West Tripura District Court, Debbarman confirmed that legal consultations are currently underway. “It has been a considerable time already, and yet, we have not received any valid explanation for the delay in holding the Village Council elections. Our people living in the villages deserve proper representation. If the State Election Commission fails to act swiftly, we shall be compelled to take the matter to the Supreme Court,” he stated firmly.
The VC elections in TTAADC have been pending for several years now, leading to significant dissatisfaction among the tribal population, who see the delay as a denial of grassroots democratic rights. The High Court has already issued directives for holding the elections, but the implementation remains elusive. Debbarman’s statement indicates a growing impatience and a willingness to escalate the issue legally, if necessary.
Clarifies Stand on Alliance With BJP
When asked about the potential impact such a legal move might have on the alliance between Tipra Motha and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Debbarman was unequivocal. “An alliance doesn’t mean uniformity in opinions. We are not obligated to think the same way. The High Court has already issued directions to conduct the elections. If those orders are still not being followed, legal action becomes necessary. I can’t compromise the welfare of my people for the sake of political convenience,” he said.
Debbarman emphasized that his party’s commitment lies with the people of Tripura, especially the indigenous communities. He argued that any alliance or partnership cannot override constitutional rights or the democratic aspirations of tribal villagers who continue to be sidelined in the absence of elected village councils.
Condemns Political Violence in Tripura
Referring to a recent violent clash between Tipra Motha and BJP supporters in Khowai district, Debbarman strongly condemned the incident, calling for an end to political violence in the state.
“Violence of any kind must be denounced. This is a critical time when all people of Tripura, regardless of political leanings, should unite and stand firmly against illegal immigration from Bangladesh. Political differences can be resolved through dialogue, not violence. Political violence is a Tripura-specific menace—it doesn’t happen in other states. It’s high time we put an end to this culture,” he said.
His remarks reflect a larger concern about the increasing politicization and tension in rural and tribal regions of Tripura, where clashes often erupt over party-based rivalries. Debbarman urged political parties across the spectrum to adopt a more mature and democratic approach to resolve differences.
Court Appearance in Case Against Content Creator
Debbarman was at the West Tripura District Court in connection with a case he filed against controversial social media influencer Saikat Talapatra. Talapatra, notorious for sharing provocative and allegedly defamatory content, has been booked under provisions of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
As the legal proceedings continue, Talapatra was produced in court for further hearings. The case has attracted considerable attention on social media, with supporters and critics weighing in on the legality and ethics of online content targeting tribal leaders and marginalized communities.
A Critical Moment for Tripura’s Tribal Governance
The developments underscore a growing urgency within TMP ranks to secure timely VC elections and expand democratic participation in the autonomous tribal council areas. With the State Election Commission dragging its feet and no concrete timeline in sight, the possibility of the Supreme Court intervening adds a new dimension to the evolving political landscape in Tripura.
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As Debbarman continues to champion the rights of indigenous people, his bold stance places him at odds with certain establishment positions, even as it reinforces his credibility among grassroots tribal supporters.
