CM Dr Manik Saha Reveals ‘Real Truth’ Behind Pradyot’s Dramatic Hunger Strike, Political Questions Intensify Ahead of TTAADC Polls
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, March 15, 2026
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha launched a sharp political attack on Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma and the TIPRA Motha Party, claiming that the real truth behind Pradyot’s dramatic call for an indefinite hunger strike has now been exposed. The remarks have triggered intense political debate in the state, particularly with the TTAADC elections approaching.
Addressing a large gathering at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, the Chief Minister today criticized what he described as dramatic politics and alleged attempts to mislead tribal communities in the name of identity issues.
Dr. Saha, without directly naming Pradyot at some points, questioned his leadership credentials and consistency in political positions. He said that someone who cannot even speak the Kokborok language properly cannot claim to be the sole representative of the indigenous community.
The Chief Minister further alleged that certain leaders are repeatedly provoking innocent tribal people in the name of community politics, which he said is not a sign of healthy democratic practice.
“Some leaders once said they would leave Tripura if Greater Tipraland was not created. Now they speak about One Northeast. Every time a different narrative is presented. This contradiction is strange,” the Chief Minister said.
He also claimed that many tribal citizens are now distancing themselves from what he called low-level politics and are instead joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). According to him, the large participation in the BJP’s Mahajogdan Sabha reflects growing support for the party among indigenous communities.
Meanwhile, political activity is also intensifying in the TTAADC region. On Saturday, TIPRA Motha held a major rally in Khumulwng, widely seen as part of preparations for the upcoming ADC elections.
At the same time, the Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF) has demanded that all 28 seats of the TTAADC be contested only by indigenous candidates, adding another dimension to the evolving political discourse in tribal areas.
However, the Chief Minister’s remarks have also raised several political questions from critics and observers.
Opposition voices have questioned that if the state government believes Pradyot or his supporters are breaking the law, why legal action has not yet been taken.
Another issue raised relates to alleged incidents where TIPRA Motha supporters reportedly attacked BJP activists during a “ PM Mann Ki Baat” programme. Critics are asking whether those responsible have been identified, arrested, and prosecuted.
Some political observers are also asking whether the government’s cautious approach is influenced by political considerations ahead of the TTAADC elections.
Questions are now being raised about whether the state government will initiate strict legal action against any individuals involved in violence or unlawful activities, regardless of political affiliation.
Many citizens and political commentators have urged the government to ensure fair and firm enforcement of law against all miscreants, stressing that maintaining peace and political dignity in Tripura is essential during this sensitive pre-election period.
As the debate intensifies, both the BJP and TIPRA Motha appear to be sharpening their political narratives, signaling that the upcoming ADC elections could become a major battleground in Tripura’s evolving political landscape.
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