The Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT) has declared full readiness for upcoming Village Council and TTAADC elections. General Secretary Swapan Debbarma confirmed the party’s organizational strength while keeping options open on alliances.
With the political climate in Tripura gradually heating up ahead of the upcoming Village Council and Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), an ally of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has declared that the party is fully prepared to face any electoral challenge.
On Wednesday, IPFT General Secretary Swapan Debbarma addressed the media after a central committee review meeting, where he emphasized the party’s organizational preparedness. “We have not yet come to the decision if we are fighting alone in any elections, but as of now we are fully ready to contest any upcoming elections,” Debbarma asserted.
Alliance Uncertainty: Independent or with BJP?
While the IPFT remains an ally of the BJP-led government in Tripura, Debbarma admitted that discussions about contesting elections independently are still ongoing. Presently, IPFT is allied with both the BJP and the TIPRA Motha, another significant regional force. This triangular alliance has often been a point of debate in Tripura’s political circles, given the varying regional aspirations and strategies of the parties involved.
“The final decision regarding whether IPFT will contest alone or as part of the alliance is yet to be taken. However, one thing is clear—we are organizationally strong and ready for any election that comes our way,” Debbarma clarified.
Momentum from Tipraland Statehood Day
In addition to electoral readiness, IPFT has also been focusing on its long-standing demand for a separate state of ‘Tipraland,’ carved out of the tribal areas of Tripura. Debbarma highlighted that the party’s recent programme marking Tipraland Statehood Demand Day on August 23 drew a massive response from the people.
He described the event as “historic,” claiming it showcased the unwavering support of indigenous communities towards the cause of greater autonomy and political recognition. “The enthusiasm and participation of the people prove that the demand for Tipraland is still very strong and continues to inspire the tribal population,” he added.
IPFT’s Balancing Act
The IPFT’s dual focus on electoral participation and the Tipraland movement reflects the party’s balancing act—addressing immediate political challenges while keeping alive its ideological foundation. Although being in alliance with the BJP has helped the party maintain political relevance, grassroots supporters often press for a stronger stand on the statehood demand.
Political observers in Tripura believe that the IPFT’s future course will depend heavily on how the BJP and TIPRA Motha position themselves in the upcoming elections. While the BJP has sought to strengthen its presence in tribal areas through alliances, TIPRA Motha has also been aggressively campaigning for the rights of indigenous people.
Challenges Ahead for IPFT
Despite its readiness, IPFT faces multiple challenges. First, the party has to carefully navigate its alliances with the BJP and TIPRA Motha, both of which have strong but sometimes conflicting political agendas. Secondly, maintaining grassroots support while being in government is another test, particularly when demands like Tipraland require long-term negotiations with the Centre.
Moreover, internal organizational cohesion will be crucial. As election campaigns intensify, ensuring that party workers remain motivated and united will play a key role in IPFT’s performance.
The Road Ahead
As of now, IPFT’s message is one of preparedness and optimism. The leadership is keen to project the party as a vital player in Tripura’s political landscape—capable of contesting independently if required, while also maintaining its alliance ties for strategic advantage.
Debbarma’s statements suggest that the IPFT is positioning itself as both a guardian of indigenous rights and a pragmatic political force. Whether the party contests independently or remains within the BJP-led fold, its performance in the upcoming Village Council and TTAADC elections will be a crucial indicator of its strength.
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With the countdown to polls already underway, Tripura’s political scene is likely to witness intense activity in the coming weeks. For the IPFT, the elections will not just be about winning seats but also about reinforcing its identity and political relevance in the state’s fast-evolving landscape.
