In a significant development in Tripura politics, Tipra Motha Party founder and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma has announced his decision to withdraw from active politics, saying he will no longer hold political office or take part in day-to-day political activities.
In a letter addressed to the people of Tripura, Debbarma described his decision as “clear and final”, stressing that it was neither a temporary move nor a decision taken in anger.
He said the decision followed years of public service, political engagement and personal reflection, and that he now needed to focus on his health, family and personal well-being.
Looking back at his political journey, Debbarma highlighted several issues that had shaped his public life, including the settlement of the Bru community and the long-standing demand for a Tiprasa Accord to address historical grievances and secure constitutional safeguards for indigenous communities.
He recalled that Tipra Motha was formed with the aim of bringing together different groups pursuing similar causes under a common political platform.
“Our strength was always there; what we needed was unity. One platform, One voice, One Thansa,” he wrote.
Debbarma said the movement had expanded considerably since its formation and now has a significant presence across Tripura. He pointed to 3,428 elected Village Council leaders, 24 MDCs and 13 MLAs as indicators of the organisation's political growth.
However, he acknowledged that the prolonged negotiations over the Tiprasa Accord had taken a heavy physical and emotional toll. Differences within the movement, disappointments and competing interests, he said, had at times weakened the collective position.
Despite the challenges, Debbarma urged stakeholders not to allow disagreements to create lasting divisions. He emphasised that the Tiprasa Accord was larger than any individual, party or political office.
“The Tiprasa Accord remains bigger than any individual, party or political position. It belongs to our people and to the generations yet to come,” he said.
He appealed to all concerned parties to remain united and work towards ensuring that the commitments made under the accord are implemented within the promised timeframe, referring to assurances given by the Union Home Minister and the Chief Minister of Tripura.
Debbarma also reiterated that his decision was not driven by a pursuit of political power or position. He said his political involvement had always been guided by the broader objectives of justice, dignity and a better future for the people of Tripura.
Explaining his withdrawal, he said years of travelling, negotiations, public responsibilities and political struggles had affected his health, peace of mind and family life.
He now wants to devote more time to his family, look after his health and reconnect with aspects of his personal life that he had set aside during years of public service.
At the same time, Debbarma made it clear that leaving active politics would not mean distancing himself from Tripura or its people.
He said he would no longer be a political office-holder but would continue to remain connected to the people and committed to their dignity, rights and future.
Concluding his message, Debbarma adopted a conciliatory tone, thanking the people of Tripura for their support while acknowledging the mistakes and disappointments that accompanied his political journey.
He said he was leaving active politics “not with anger, but with gratitude” and expressed his desire to begin a quieter chapter of life, with greater time for his family, nature and unfinished personal pursuits.
“Wherever life takes me, Tripura will always remain in my heart,” he said.
