The political atmosphere in Tripura has become tense as the Tipra Motha Party (TMP) has openly expressed its displeasure with the BJP-led coalition government. On Sunday, TMP chief Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma met Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu, a day after his party signalled that it might withdraw support from the ruling alliance.

This significant meeting took place shortly after BJP MP and former Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb visited Mr. Debbarma, fuelling speculation of a possible political crisis within the Manik Saha-led administration.

TMP’s growing frustration stems from two key issues—the lack of progress in implementing the Tripartite Accord signed in March 2024 and the absence of strong measures to tackle illegal infiltration, especially following a May notification by the Home Ministry regarding Rohingya and Bangladeshi migrants in the state.

TMP raises concerns over accord and infiltration

The Tipra Motha Party (TMP) had contested the 2023 Tripura Assembly elections independently and later joined the BJP-IPFT coalition government after signing the Tripartite Accord with the Centre and the state in March 2024.

In the 60-seat Assembly, the BJP-IPFT alliance held on to power by securing 33 seats—with the BJP winning 32 and IPFT just one. Contesting for the first time, TMP made a notable debut by winning 13 out of the 42 seats it contested.

However, more than a year after joining the government, TMP now believes that the promises made under the Accord have not been kept. The party is also increasingly concerned about the growing issue of illegal immigration.

After his meeting with the governor, Mr. Debbarma did not share many details. He said, "Many things have been discussed. I will say whatever needs to be said, but this is a private meeting, and I don't think it should be discussed in the public domain."

But he was firm about the seriousness of infiltration. "Infiltration is a serious problem in Tripura," he said. "The future of the state and the entire Northeast is at stake. If we do not unite to stop this now, it will be a grave injustice to our next generation, who deserve a better tomorrow."

He also gave a clear message to all political parties, saying, "This is bigger than politics. All political parties should jointly fight to stop illegal infiltration in Tripura. It affects not just our state but the entire Northeast and India."

Alliance under pressure as talks continue

Despite the rising tensions, Mr. Debbarma confirmed he is still in regular talks with Chief Minister Manik Saha. "I am in regular contact with the Chief Minister. I spoke to him yesterday and will speak again if necessary. We have discussed various matters for the betterment of Tripura."

Responding to a statement by CM Saha earlier that the Tripartite Accord’s implementation is in progress, Mr. Debbarma said, "Things are in progress—but the results must be visible on the ground. The Chief Minister is aware of the urgency. I have shared my views with him, and he has listened. Now we hope for action."

The political tensions increased further after TMP MLA Ranjit Debbarma said in a press conference that the party may withdraw support from the BJP government. He also said that Kriti Singh Debbarma, a BJPMP and sister of the TMP chief, might resign if the government doesn’t keep its promises.

In response, CM Manik Saha told reporters in Agartala that he has not received any official message from TMP about ending the alliance. "What their party members say is their matter, but I haven't received anything in writing," he said.

When asked about TMP’s complaints over the Accord’s slow progress, he replied, "I am in regular talks with the Tipra Motha chief. The process is ongoing."

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