Agartala: Tipra Motha Party supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarman on Sunday said his decision to contest the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections without a pre-poll alliance with the BJP was driven by ideological considerations, despite the risk of internal divisions within the party.
Breaking his silence after nearly a week, Debbarman addressed party workers through a social media livestream, outlining the reasons behind his stand and urging them to take the message to grassroots supporters across tribal areas.
He said he had faced sustained pressure from sections within the party to enter into an understanding with the Bharatiya Janata Party, but chose not to yield. “I was told that an alliance would ensure electoral success and ease financial constraints, but I did not concede,” he said.
According to him, such a move would have compromised the party’s core political and ideological commitments. “Had we entered into an alliance, the very foundation of our principles would have been affected,” he said, adding that his decisions were guided by long-term objectives rather than immediate electoral gains.
Debbarman acknowledged that the decision could weaken the party organisationally and lead to dissension. “I was aware that some leaders might leave. I do not hold any personal grievances. People move for opportunities,” he said.
He also pointed to internal challenges over ticket distribution, noting that nearly 300 aspirants had sought nominations for just 28 seats. “I regret that many could not be accommodated,” he said.
Reflecting on his political journey, Debbarman said he had built the party over time after leaving the Congress, initially through a social initiative that later evolved into a political platform. He reiterated that his entry into politics was driven by concerns over the rights and welfare of indigenous communities.
The party, he said, has been advocating constitutional safeguards, land rights, education and greater financial support for tribal areas. Referring to the Tiprasa Accord, he said a firm political position was necessary to secure long-term outcomes through dialogue with the Centre.
On the electoral prospects, he admitted that contesting independently would be challenging. “We do not have the financial resources that others have, nor access to administrative support,” he said, while expressing confidence in the party’s grassroots backing.
Responding to remarks by Chief Minister Manik Saha on the implementation of the Tiprasa Accord, Debbarman said the government should deliver on its commitments before seeking electoral support.
He also appealed to supporters to maintain peace during the election period and avoid violence. “We should not harm our own people,” he said.
Reiterating his position, Debbarman said the party’s primary allegiance remained with the people. “My alliance is with the people of the state, not with any political party,” he said.