Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPIM) in Tripura launched a scathing attack against the Janajati Suraksha Manch (JSM) for its demand to remove Scheduled Tribe (ST) status from tribals who have converted to Christianity.
The Janajati Suraksha Manch (JSM) is scheduled to hold a rally in Agartala on X-mas in support of their demand.
Addressing a press conference in Agartala on Tuesday, CPIM state secretary and Gana Mukti Parishad (GMP) leader Jitendra Choudhury termed the JSM’s demand “unconstitutional” and a blatant attempt by the BJP-RSS combine to “ruin the unity among the tribals of Tripura.”
He also referred to the Constitution of India saying that the ST status is not related to any religion.
Choudhury accused the JSM of “playing with fire” by raising such a divisive issue and further escalating tensions by planning a “delisting rally” on Christmas Day itself, December 25th.
“This is nothing but a communal appeal,” he declared, urging the state government to ban the rally on a sacred day for the Christian community which is also celebrated in the State by other communities as well.
The CPIM leader also demanded an immediate investigation into the JSM’s motives and appropriate action to prevent communal clashes and maintain social harmony in Tripura.
Jitendra Choudhary also raised concerns about another potential flashpoint – over an ancient religious structure in Dimatoli Gram panchayat under South Tripura District.
He alleged that Hindu-backed organizations are claiming the structure, known locally as an ancient mosque, to be a Jagannath temple. The structure is located near the India-Bangladesh Border.
He said the mosque came to the foreground during the Left Front government after it came back to power defeating Congress in 1993. He claimed that the place became a tourist spot which led to the development of the area.
Choudhury alleged Hindu organisations have changed the ancient mosque into a Hindu temple – Jagannath temple.
He pointed out that Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha himself had been presented with a picture of the structure during a recent event, seemingly endorsing the temple claim.
Choudhury urged the Chief Minister to “check the fact” and “prevent such attempts to ignite communal disharmony in the state.