BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 27th February 2024: In a bid to address the emerging challenges, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president, Rajib Bhattacharjee, convened a crucial meeting following revelations of party weaknesses across 20 Scheduled Tribe (ST) constituencies. Simultaneously, TIPRA Motha supremo, Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, engaged in discussions until late night at Minister Shuklacharan Noatia’s residence, indicating escalating tensions in the political landscape.
The simmering feud between ruling and opposition factions has ignited in anticipation of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Despite efforts, the BJP struggles to counter the growing influence of former founder of the TIPRA Motha, a concern resonating within political circles. The once manageable Autonomous District Council (ADC) has transformed into a political headache for the ruling camp since its establishment in 2018.
Acknowledging the mounting pressure, the BJP leadership admitted to challenges posed by TIPRA Motha, attributing some missteps, particularly in seat allocation with the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT) during the previous ADC elections. This misallocation, primarily affecting Janjati communities, remains a contentious issue requiring resolution ahead of the Lok Sabha polls.
Pradyot’s disillusionment with the central government’s unfulfilled promises for Janjati communities has intensified, prompting him to announce a hunger strike starting February 28 in Baramura. Despite attempts at mediation, the failure to address these grievances has led Pradyot to lose faith, compelling him to resort to drastic measures.
Meanwhile, Tuesday witnessed an organizational meeting of the Janjati Morcha, with leaders such as Pradesh Janjati Morcha President Parimal Debbarma and Pradesh BJP President Bhattacharjee in attendance. Bhattacharjee emphasized the government’s commitment to development and outlined strategies to engage and inform constituents effectively. The meeting concluded with plans to rectify deficiencies in the 20 ST seats ahead of the impending Lok Sabha elections, amidst TIPRA Motha’s resolute opposition, which appears to have gained significant traction in state politics.
