Tipra Motha MLA threatens to withdraw support from BJP, announces rally over MHA directive on illegal immigrants

Tipra Motha Party MLA Ranjit Debbarma on Saturday issued a strong warning that the party may withdraw its support from the ruling BJP government in Tripura if their key demands—particularly the implementation of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) directives against illegal Bangladeshi immigrants and the introduction of the 125th Constitutional Amendment—are not fulfilled.

Addressing a press conference in Agartala, Debbarma announced that a non-political rally will be held on July 7, demanding enforcement of the MHA notification concerning identification and action against illegal immigrants.

“The Tripura government has taken no concrete steps in this matter. That’s why we are organizing an apolitical rally,” said Debbarma.

“Royal scion and Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Manikya will join the rally not as a political figure, but in his personal capacity as a royal. The rally will start from Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan and culminate at Swami Vivekananda Maidan.”

Debbarma criticized the state government for inaction despite similar directives being implemented in other states. 

“Gujarat, Delhi, and Assam have taken steps after the MHA notification. In Tamil Nadu, a Special Task Force was constituted. But in Tripura, no such action has been taken even after repeated communications with the state government,” he said.

The MLA added that they had also approached the District Magistrates of Gomati and Sepahijala, but no follow-up action has been reported so far. “The MHA directives clearly state that illegal immigrants from Bangladesh must be identified and detained within 30 days, and Special Task Forces should be formed. But Tripura has done nothing,” he alleged.

He further claimed that illegal Bangladeshis are residing in several parts of Agartala city without scrutiny.

Debbarma also revealed that he spoke with Pradyot Kishore Manikya on Saturday morning. “He told me that the Tipra Motha Party is prepared to withdraw support from the government. Even our MP, Kriti Devi Singh, is nearly ready to leave the BJP,” he stated.

“We too are on the verge of pulling out. A final decision will be taken at our meeting scheduled on July 30. The state and central governments have failed to fulfill our demands—no Village Council elections have been held, and the 125th Amendment is still pending. What is the point of staying in the government if our core issues are ignored?” Debbarma asked.

He concluded by saying that all 13 Tipra Motha MLAs are united and will soon approach the Centre for further dialogue.