Northeast Press | Guwahati | June 24, 2025
Pradyot Kishore Manikya Deb Barma, the founder of Tipra Motha and a key ally of the BJP-led government in Tripura, has urged the Government of India to immediately formulate a comprehensive and decisive policy regarding the upcoming elections in Bangladesh. Speaking on Sunday night, the royal scion of Tripura warned that political instability in the neighbouring country could pose serious threats to India’s northeastern states.
Deb Barma emphasized that if Bangladesh’s ruling Awami League, led by Sheikh Hasina, is not allowed to participate freely in the democratic process, anti-India elements may rise to power.
“Such a scenario could lead to increased persecution of minorities—Hindus, Christians, Buddhists—and a government hostile to Indian interests. The Northeast, especially Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya, would be at the forefront of these repercussions,” he stated.
He criticized India’s reactive foreign policy, remarking, “When other countries challenge us, we merely stop cricket matches or boycott cultural events. That is not enough. India must assert itself from a position of strength and foresight.”
Raising the alarm over ongoing illegal migration from Bangladesh and Myanmar, Deb Barma questioned the lack of concrete action.
“Illegal migrants are entering Tripura and other parts of the Northeast, acquiring documents like Aadhaar and PAN cards. If this continues unchecked, they could be counted as voters in the upcoming 2027 delimitation exercise. This is not just a demographic concern—it’s a national security issue,” he said.
He further revealed that at least 20 illegal migrants from Bangladesh have reportedly settled in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) region.
“This is not a new issue. Tripura has suffered due to unchecked migration in the past. We cannot afford to ignore it anymore—this is not the time for political games,” he asserted.
Deb Barma also expressed dissatisfaction over the delay in implementing the Tipra Accord, which was signed last year to address longstanding demands of Tripura’s indigenous communities. With 13 MLAs, Tipra Motha remains a significant political partner in the state, and the delay in delivering on the accord has led to growing frustration among tribal communities.
“We allied with the BJP in good faith, trusting the promises made to the people of Tripura. But the delay in implementing the Tipra Accord is deeply disappointing,” he added.
In his concluding remarks, Deb Barma reiterated his call for urgent, non-partisan action:
“The challenges before the Northeast are real—illegal migration, external threats, demographic changes, and broken promises. India must act now with clarity and conviction to protect the interests of its frontier states.”
For further updates and exclusive regional coverage, stay connected with Northeast Press
🌐 www.northeastpress.in
