Tension flared during the observance of the 48th Kokborok Language Day in Tripura on Monday after around 40 students were detained for staging protests over the long-pending demand for introducing the Roman script for the Kokborok language.

The programme, which commenced from Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan, witnessed participation from students, teachers, and representatives of various educational and social organisations. The rally was led by MLA Rampada Jamatia along with former MLA Dr Atul Debbarma, who also serves as the convener of the Script Selection Committee for Kokborok language development.

As the rally progressed, members of indigenous student organisations, including the Twipra Students Federation (TSF) and the Tipra Indigenous Students Federation (TISF), reached the venue and raised slogans demanding the adoption of the Roman script. The protesters accused the government of repeatedly disregarding the sentiments of the indigenous Tiprasa community on the script issue.

Police intervened soon after, citing disruption of the official programme, and restrained the demonstrators.

Addressing the media, TSF Vice President John Debbarma criticised the government for what he described as symbolic observance without addressing core demands. He said that while Kokborok Language Day was being officially celebrated, the aspirations of the Tiprasa people were being overlooked.

“Today we are celebrating our language, but the most crucial issue—the script—remains unresolved. For years, our right to choose the script of our own language has been denied. Through this protest, we want to make it clear that the Tiprasa people will continue to raise their voice until the Roman script is adopted,” he said.

Reacting to the developments, MLA Rampada Jamatia described the disruption as unfortunate. He said the rally was meant to promote unity and the growth of the Kokborok language.

“It is disappointing that a peaceful rally was disturbed. The police should have acted earlier to prevent such a situation. Our focus remains on strengthening the Kokborok language, developing its script, and working towards its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution. Everyone must contribute positively to this cause,” Jamatia said.

The script controversy surrounding Kokborok has remained unresolved for decades and continues to be a sensitive issue in Tripura, frequently triggering protests and political debate.