BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 19th January 2026: The 48th Kokborok Language Day rally in Tripura turned tense on Monday as indigenous student organizations protested, demanding the adoption of the Roman script for the Kokborok language. The demonstration was led by groups including the Twipra Students Federation (TSF) and Tipra Indigenous Students Federation (TISF).
The rally, which began at Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan, saw participation from students, teachers, and members of various schools and social organizations. It was led by MLA Rampada Jamatia and former MLA Dr. Atul Debbarma, who also serves as the convener of the Script Selection Committee for the development of Kokborok.
Shortly after the rally commenced, members of the student bodies arrived, raising slogans in support of the Roman script. The protesters accused the government of ignoring the collective voice of the indigenous community on this long-standing issue. Police later intervened to prevent disruption of the rally.
Speaking to the media, TSF Vice President John Debbarma said, “While the government officially observes Kokborok Language Day, it is failing to respect the aspirations of the Tiprasa people. Our protest today is to demand our rights, including the right to choose the script for our language. The government must honor our demand for the Roman script.”
Reacting to the protest, MLA Rampada Jamatia described the disruption as unfortunate. “It is very sad. A meaningful rally was underway, but a few tried to disrupt it. The main goal remains to develop the Kokborok language, establish its script, and work toward its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Everyone must participate in this effort,” he said.
