BJP allies seek min’s ouster over controversial remarks

Agartala: The ruling BJP in Tripura is grappling with internal strife as two of its tribal-based coalition partners have voiced strong objections against tribal welfare minister Bikash Debbarma.

The controversy erupted following a public rally where Debbarma made inflammatory remarks about tribal communities, prompting demands for his removal from both coalition allies and opposition parties.The Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), a key ally of BJP, has threatened to initiate a state-wide protest against Debbarma. Similarly, TIPRA Motha, another coalition partner, has condemned the minister's comments, aligning with the opposition CPM and Congress in calling for his ouster.

TIPRA Motha activists have taken their grievances to the streets, staging demonstrations outside Debbarma’s ancestral home in Krishnapur, Khowai district. They demanded his resignation and have warned of eviction from the village unless he issues an unconditional apology to the tribal communities.The controversy stems from Debbarma’s remarks during a rally, where he criticized TIPRA Motha in the presence of chief minister Manik Saha and senior cabinet members.

His statement that Motha “should be torn apart like a poultry rooster” has sparked outrage across political lines.Swapan Debbarma, general secretary of IPFT, condemned the minister’s language as unacceptable and warned of its potential to disrupt Tripura’s democratic and peaceful political environment. He emphasized that IPFT's support was instrumental in ending the 25-year rule of the Left Front in Tripura, reminding the BJP of the coalition’s significance.Swapan questioned the BJP’s governance, highlighting the need for continued voter pressure despite seven years in power, which he interprets as a failure to fulfill promises. He also underscored the importance of Tiprasa votes, particularly for the 20 assembly seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes, as crucial for maintaining governance in Tripura.As the state gears up for the upcoming Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, the political landscape remains tense, with the outcome of all 28 seats being of significant importance.