Tribal politics continued to influence Tripura’s political scene in 2024, with the ruling BJP focusing on strengthening its support among indigenous communities and reducing reliance on tribal allies like the Tipra Motha Party (TMP). The upcoming elections for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council have intensified tribal-based politics in the state.
The TMP has been governing the TTAADC since 2021, a significant body covering a large part of Tripura and home to a majority of indigenous people. Major political parties, including BJP, TMP, IPFT, CPI (M), and Congress, are actively working to garner tribal support ahead of the TTAADC polls.
To reduce dependence on tribal allies, the BJP has increased its organizational activities in tribal areas since early this year. The party organized a crucial meeting in July, aiming to engage with indigenous communities and strengthen its base among them.
Senior tribal leader Bipin Debbarma stated that a significant number of people from indigenous communities have joined the BJP in recent months. However, tensions have risen between the BJP and TMP, with reports of clashes between their workers in various districts.
The TMP, Congress, and CPI (M) have also claimed an increase in their party memberships during the year. Despite being part of the ruling coalition, the TMP has continued to press for its demands, including ‘Greater Tipraland’ and implementation of the tripartite agreement signed last year.
Chief Minister Manik Saha criticized the politics of threats and blackmail, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order through dialogue and constitutional means. He highlighted the BJP’s efforts in tribal areas, increased budget allocations, and infrastructure development in TTAADC regions.
