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Tripura's Political Shift: How BJP Counts on Tribal Unity After CPI(M) Rule

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has sharply criticized the former CPI(M) government for treating tribal communities as a mere vote bank. He revealed that the communists were so sure of tribal support they'd start counting election results from the 20 reserved seats. In contrast, Saha asserts the BJP is working for inclusive development under PM Modi's vision for a "New Tripura." The CM made these remarks while welcoming thousands of new members to the BJP ahead of crucial tribal council elections.

Key Points: Tripura CM Manik Saha Accuses CPI(M) of Using Tribals as Vote Bank

  • CM Saha alleges CPI(M) began past election counts from 20 tribal-reserved seats, showing overconfidence
  • BJP formally welcomed over 5,000 new voters from 1,706 families into the party
  • Saha claims past politics was marked by fear, intimidation, and violence against communities
  • The BJP promotes 'Thansa', meaning unity among all tribal and non-tribal groups in Tripura
3 min read

CPI (M) used tribals as vote bank, BJP works for all sections: Tripura CM

Tripura CM Manik Saha alleges CPI(M) exploited tribal communities for votes, while BJP focuses on inclusive development and 'Thansa' (unity) ahead of TTAADC polls.

"But now they (CPI-M) are scared. We have learned from them. From the next Assembly election... we will also start counting from 20. - Tripura CM Manik Saha"

Agartala, Dec 13

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday alleged that during its long rule, the CPI (M) treated the janajati (tribal) communities merely as a vote bank, while asserting that the BJP is committed to inclusive development and public welfare.

Addressing a party programme at the Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhavan here, the Chief Minister said that the communists were so confident of their hold over tribal voters that they used to begin counting Assembly election results from 20 assembly seats reserved for the tribal in the 60-member house.

“But now they (CMI-M) are scared. We have learned from them. From the next Assembly election, whenever a BJP government is formed, we will also start counting from 20,” he said.

Saha, former BJP state President, said that his party enjoys the blessings and guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the party’s national President J.P. Nadda, and is working towards peace and development in the state.

He alleged that earlier politics was marked by fear, intimidation and violence, causing prolonged suffering among janajati communities.

During the Saturday’s programme, Saha formally welcomed 5,050 voters from 1,706 families who joined the BJP.

Referring to past political practices, he said that markets were often shut and threats issued whenever leaders attended meetings.

“Such politics will not continue. Wherever attacks are made, the BJP becomes stronger,” he said, adding that the party follows Prime Minister Modi’s vision of building a “New India” and is committed to creating a “New Tripura”.

“The BJP is not a party of goons. It is a party that works for the people,” the Chief Minister said.

Explaining the concept of ‘Thansa’ (a tribal word meaning unity), Saha said it symbolises unity among jati (non-tribals), janajati (tribals), Manipuri and minority communities, which the BJP seeks to strengthen to build a developed Tripura.

He said the BJP-led government is working with a clear focus on development and respects all those who have contributed to the state, including members of the royal family.

The Chief Minister added that while new political parties emerge frequently, it is the BJP-led double-engine government that is genuinely working for the welfare of janajatis.

Saha said those who joined the BJP on Saturday had taken the right decision at the right time and expressed confidence that the party would emerge stronger in the upcoming Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections.

The meeting was attended by BJP State President Rajib Bhattacharya, General Secretary Bipin Debbarma, Industries and Commerce Minister Santana Chakma, Tourism Minister Sushant Chowdhury, Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Tinku Roy, Scheduled Caste Welfare Minister Sudhangshu Das, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikas Debbarma, BJP Vice President and TTAADC member Bimal Chakma, Vice President Subal Bhowmik, MLA Shambhu Lal Chakma, and other senior party leaders.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I appreciate the sentiment of unity, the CM's comment about "learning from them" and also starting counting from the 20 reserved seats feels a bit cynical. Isn't the goal to move beyond such tactics? 🤔 Development should be the real focus, not electoral games.
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Bipin Debbarma
As someone from a tribal community here, the shift is palpable. The earlier regime's neglect was profound. Roads, schools, and a sense of security have improved. The BJP's outreach feels more genuine than the CPI(M)'s taken-for-granted support.
S
Sarah B
Interesting to see such a large number of voters switching parties. 5,050 people is a significant shift. It suggests a major realignment in Tripura's political landscape. The TTAADC elections will be the real test of these claims.
R
Rohit P
Every party says they work for all sections when they are in power. The CPI(M) said the same thing for 25 years. The proof will be in sustained development work in the tribal areas, not just before elections. Let's see the ground reality.
M
Meera T
The mention of ending fear and intimidation is crucial. Politics of violence has no place in a democracy. If the BJP can truly ensure peaceful political activity for all, that alone would be a massive achievement for Tripura. Fingers crossed! 🙏

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