Discontent Grows Within Tripura BJP Over Alleged Overdependence on TIPRA Motha, Claims Section of Party Leaders

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, August 3, 2026

A section of senior leaders within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tripura is reportedly expressing growing dissatisfaction over what they describe as the central leadership's increasing reliance on TIPRA Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarma for the party's political strategy in the state.

The issue has gained renewed attention following recent public remarks by former BJP MP Pratima Bhoumik, who alleged that certain BJP central leaders entrusted with Tripura affairs have been ignoring grassroots state leaders while focusing primarily on maintaining power in the state through political understandings. According to her, the concerns and contributions of local BJP leaders are not receiving adequate importance.

Similar sentiments have also been linked to former BJP MP Rebati Tripura, who recently distanced himself from active party politics and returned to his teaching profession. Although he has not publicly stated the reasons behind his decision, political observers have drawn comparisons with the concerns raised by other party leaders.

Several prominent tribal leaders who once held key positions in the BJP are no longer active within the party. These include former Deputy Chief Minister Jishnu Dev Varma, former MP Rebati Tripura, former MLA Dr. Atul Debbarma, former MLA and former BJP ST Morcha President Parimal Debbarma, and former state vice-president and former MDC Bimal Chakma. Their exit or reduced role has become a topic of discussion within political circles.

Some BJP insiders also point to the expulsion of former MDC Padmalochan Tripura, arguing that his removal reflected the party's unwillingness to accommodate leaders who openly voiced concerns. They claim that dedicated tribal leaders who worked at the grassroots level often receive less recognition than those perceived to be closer to the party's power structure.

According to opinions expressed by a section of BJP workers and leaders, the party's strategy for the 2028 Tripura Assembly elections appears to be centred on strengthening its alliance with TIPRA Motha under the leadership of Pradyot Kishore Debbarma. They allege that, as part of this political approach, several influential tribal BJP leaders are being gradually sidelined to consolidate support among indigenous voters through the alliance.

These allegations, however, represent the views of a section of BJP leaders and workers and have not been officially endorsed by the BJP leadership. Neither the BJP central leadership nor TIPRA Motha has publicly responded to these specific claims.

Political analysts believe that the manner in which the BJP manages internal dissent while balancing its alliance with TIPRA Motha could play a significant role in shaping the political landscape ahead of the 2028 Tripura Assembly elections.

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