Tripura CM Responds to TMP MLA's Coalition Threat

Chief Minister's Response to Coalition Concerns

Agartala, July 6: On Sunday, Manik Saha, the Chief Minister of Tripura, chose not to comment on the recent threat made by Ranjit Debbarma, an MLA from the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), regarding the potential withdrawal of support from the BJP-led coalition government in the state.

Debbarma expressed on Saturday that the TMP is ready to retract its support due to unmet commitments related to the Tiprasa Accord.

In response, Saha remarked, "He is a member of a different party, and his comments reflect his personal opinion. It would not be prudent for me to comment on his statement," during a press interaction.

Nonetheless, Saha mentioned that he maintains regular communication with TMP leader Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma.

"We are actively working on implementing the Tiprasa Accord, which is crucial for the development of the indigenous communities in our state," Saha added.

In reaction to Debbarma's remarks, TMP leader Pradyot Kishore Debbarma stated, "I am not fully aware of what our MLA Ranjit Debbarma said, but I will discuss it with him. I spoke with Chief Minister Manik Saha today and reminded him that it has been 18 months since the Tiprasa Accord was signed."

He further noted, "If MLA Debbarma is considering withdrawing support, it likely stems from a feeling of frustration and insecurity that is prevalent in rural areas."

Pradyot Kishore Debbarma also mentioned that he had a conversation with Chief Minister Saha about these concerns, which he assured would be communicated to the central government.

This situation arises over a year after a tripartite agreement was established in New Delhi involving the TMP, the Tripura government, and the central authorities to address the issues faced by the indigenous population of Tripura.

The Tipra Motha Party signed the Tiprasa Accord with both the central and state governments in March 2024, aimed at fostering the overall development of the indigenous communities.

Previously the main opposition in Tripura, the TMP allied with the BJP-led government ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

With 13 MLAs in the 60-member assembly and two ministerial positions, even if the TMP withdraws its support, the BJP-led government would still hold power with 33 MLAs and the support of an IPFT legislator.