In a heartfelt and urgent appeal, Tipra Motha, the tribal-centric political ally of the BJP in Tripura, has sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address what it calls a rising crisis — the unchecked influx of illegal immigrants threatening the socio-cultural fabric of the northeastern state.
Tipra Motha’s supremo, Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, a royal descendant and a strong voice for indigenous rights, said on Saturday, “Our land, language, and identity are under serious threat. We are not asking for hatred — we are asking for balance. We want the Prime Minister to ensure that the rights of the sons and daughters of the soil are protected.”
“Tripura is bleeding quietly.”
In the eyes of many indigenous Tripuris, the demographic changes that began after the Partition and escalated post the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War continue to alter the state’s ethnic balance. “People speak of borders and national security, but what about cultural security?” said Rina Debbarma, a school teacher from Khowai. “We are losing our voice in our own land.”
Tipra Motha has specifically urged the Central government to strengthen border surveillance and initiate immediate steps for identifying and pushing back illegal immigrants. “We are not against any community, but we want the rule of law. We cannot let Tripura turn into a dumping ground,” Pradyot added.
*A Delicate Political Balance*
Tipra Motha’s alignment with the BJP had raised eyebrows among several tribal intellectuals. But the party maintained it chose alliance over isolation to bring indigenous issues to the national table. Now, the appeal to PM Modi is being seen as a test of that alliance’s strength.
BJP leaders in the state have remained mostly silent on the matter, though insiders say discussions are underway in Delhi to form a joint strategy.
*Voices from the Ground*
Local shopkeeper Haradhan Saha, who has lived in Tripura for over 50 years, expressed worry but also compassion. “Many who came decades ago have built lives here. But new entrants must be identified. Otherwise, even old communities will suffer. There has to be regulation.”
Meanwhile, in the tribal belts of Dhalai and Gomati, youth organizations have stepped up rallies and signature campaigns. “We are not against humanity,” said 22-year-old activist Bimal Koloi. “We are for justice. Our grandfathers fought to protect this land. We won’t let their dreams die silently.”
*The Path Ahead*
Tipra Motha is pressing the Centre to establish a high-level committee for verification of illegal immigration and seek cooperation with Bangladesh for controlled and humane deportation. They’ve also demanded constitutional safeguards and more representation for tribal voices in the state machinery.
As Tripura walks the tightrope between historical trauma and modern political pressures, its people — both indigenous and migrant — hope for a future where peace and fairness coexist.
“If we can’t save our identity now, we might lose it forever,” Pradyot warned — a sentiment that echoes across forested hills and crowded town squares alike.