Tripura Bandh on Bhai Phonta Day Sparks Cultural Controversy, Amra Bangali Lone Voice of Opposition, BJP Silent, CPM and Congress Maintain Indirect Resistance

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, October 22, 2025

Political debates have intensified across Tripura following a bandh (shutdown) call by a lesser-known organization, reportedly backed by Tipra Motha legislator Ranjit Debbarma, scheduled for October 23, the day Bengalis celebrate Bhai Phonta (Bhai Dooj). The announcement has triggered widespread resentment among citizens, as the day holds deep cultural and emotional significance across the Bengali community.

The bandh call, coinciding with one of Tripura’s most cherished family festivals, has sparked anger and disappointment. Citizens and social organizations have questioned the timing, calling it insensitive and divisive.

Adding to the controversy, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has maintained an unusual silence on the issue, drawing sharp public criticism. Many have pointed out that the BJP, which has consistently opposed shutdowns as anti-development measures, has not condemned this bandh, allegedly because the call originated from a group believed to be close to Tipra Motha, an ally on several regional issues.

Amid the political hush, Amra Bangali has emerged as the only political party to openly oppose the bandh, terming it an anti-people move and an insult to Bengali cultural traditions. The party accused those supporting the bandh of trying to create ethnic division and undermine harmony in Tripura.

In contrast, both the CPI(M) and the Congress have refrained from taking a direct stand, a move that has drawn criticism from several sections of the public for being politically convenient and morally weak.

Meanwhile, the Tripura Government issued an official clarification through the General Administration Department (GAD), confirming that it is aware of the bandh call but assuring that all government offices, public sector undertakings, and state-controlled organizations will remain open and functional on October 23.

The government directive instructed all employees and staff of state-aided institutions to attend office as usual, warning that attendance details must be submitted to the GAD within the stipulated time.

Observers note that the bandh controversy reflects the delicate ethnic and cultural balance in Tripura, where such events can easily take on political overtones. So far, no major political party, apart from Amra Bangali has announced any direct counter-protest or public campaign against the bandh.

Public sentiment remains strong, with many citizens urging the administration to ensure normalcy and safeguard festive celebrations on Bhai Phonta Day. For now, the state watches closely to see whether the bandh will indeed disrupt one of Tripura’s most emotionally significant days.

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