Indigenous Day Event Cancellation Fuels Frustration in BJP’s Janajati Morcha, Tipra Motha Gains Ground

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, August 10, 2025

Resentment has been mounting within the BJP’s tribal wing, the Janajati Morcha, after the abrupt cancellation of the World Indigenous Day celebration in Agartala. The event, planned as a major outreach, was called off at the last moment, reportedly for unforeseen reasons.

The cancellation is being seen as a political setback for the BJP in tribal areas, giving an upper hand to its ally-turned-rival Tipra Motha, which went ahead with its pre-scheduled Homchang (torch) rallies across the state. These rallies, drawing large participation, reinforced Tipra Motha’s image as the primary champion of tribal rights.

Party insiders admit the Janajati Morcha has long been left inactive, creating space for Tipra Motha to dominate in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). While both parties share power in the state government, BJP’s elected members in the council remain in opposition, with little influence over its functioning.

BJP leaders allege their workers are sidelined in the distribution of welfare benefits, leading to grassroots discontent. Some senior figures are even considering resigning from party posts to return to social organisations.

With TTAADC elections due next year, uncertainty looms over the BJP’s strategy. It remains unclear whether the party will contest independently or alongside Tipra Motha. A senior leader lamented that without a clear campaign plan, regaining lost ground in the hills will be difficult, warning that the party risks losing the seats it won in the 2023 assembly polls if the current neglect continues.

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