Tripura Chief Dr. Minister Manik Saha rejects the Roman script for Kokborok, urging development of an indigenous writing system to preserve cultural identity, linguistic heritage, and prevent long-term confusion among future generations.
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has firmly rejected the demand for introducing the Roman script for the Kokborok language, advocating instead for the development of an indigenous script rooted in the cultural identity of the state’s tribal communities. His remarks came amid an ongoing political and cultural debate sparked by demands from TIPRA Motha, a prominent regional political party representing indigenous interests.
Addressing a massive gathering of the Janajati Morcha in front of RS Bhawan on Saturday, the Chief Minister made his stance clear, stating that adopting a foreign script such as Roman would not serve the long-term interests of Kokborok speakers. He emphasized that linguistic development must be anchored in cultural self-respect and historical continuity rather than external influences.
“If there is a demand for a separate script for Kokborok instead of Bengali or Devanagari, then why not develop an indigenous script of your own?” Dr. Saha asked while addressing the audience. He asserted that scholars, intellectuals, and academics from the Janajati communities possess the capability to create a unique script that truly represents Kokborok’s linguistic heritage.
The Chief Minister strongly opposed the Roman script proposal, describing it as a foreign writing system that could potentially create confusion for future generations. According to him, introducing Roman script would weaken the cultural roots of the language and could lead to long-term identity-related complications.
“Why should a foreign script like Roman be imposed on Kokborok?” he questioned. “In the long run, it will have a confusing and misleading impact on the next generation, especially when language is directly connected with cultural consciousness.”
Dr. Saha cited examples of other indigenous languages in India that have successfully developed and preserved their own scripts. He referred to the Chakma and Meitei languages, both of which possess unique writing systems that reinforce cultural pride and linguistic continuity. According to the Chief Minister, these examples demonstrate that indigenous script development is both achievable and sustainable when backed by academic and community support.
The Kokborok language, primarily spoken by Tripura’s indigenous communities, has long been at the center of debates over script usage. While Bengali script has historically been used, Devanagari is also taught in some institutions. TIPRA Motha’s demand for the Roman script has added a new political dimension to the issue, intensifying discussions around identity, education, and cultural autonomy.
Political observers believe that the Chief Minister’s statement is aimed at drawing a clear ideological line between cultural self-reliance and what he perceives as externally influenced linguistic changes. His comments also reflect a broader national discourse on preserving indigenous traditions while adapting to modern educational frameworks.
Dr. Saha emphasized that language policy should not be driven by political pressure alone. Instead, he called for inclusive dialogue involving linguists, educationists, cultural historians, and community leaders to reach a consensus that prioritizes the future of Kokborok-speaking students.
“Language is not just a medium of communication; it is a carrier of history, tradition, and identity,” he said. “Any decision regarding Kokborok must be taken with responsibility, keeping in mind its long-term cultural and educational impact.”
The Chief Minister’s remarks have triggered varied reactions across political and academic circles. Supporters argue that promoting an indigenous script would strengthen cultural roots and protect Kokborok from excessive external influence. Critics, however, contend that Roman script could offer greater accessibility and technological compatibility, especially in digital platforms.
Despite differing opinions, Dr. Saha reiterated that the government remains open to discussions but will not support measures that compromise indigenous identity. He urged tribal intellectuals and institutions to take the lead in researching and developing a standardized indigenous script if there is a genuine desire to move away from existing writing systems.
| Also Read: Kokborok Language Row: Roman vs Bengali Script Battle Resurfaces |
As the debate continues, the Kokborok script issue is expected to remain a significant cultural and political topic in Tripura. The Chief Minister’s strong opposition to the Roman script has not only clarified the state government’s position but also reignited discussions on how best to balance modernization with cultural preservation.
