Gist: “Empowering Janajati, Empowering Tripura”: CM Manik Saha sounds the poll bugle in Khumulwng with a massive roadshow. As TTAADC elections approach, the BJP intensifies its Janajati Empowerment campaign to challenge Tipra Motha’s stronghold in the tribal heartland.
Agartala Mar 5: Slogans of ‘Empowering Janajati, Empowering Tripura’ echoed across Khumulwng as Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha led the BJP’s ‘Vijay Rath’ roadshow on March 4.
The rally gathered momentum quickly. Enthusiastic party supporters participated in the roadshow and many were seen happily dancing. Saffron flags fluttered on both sides of the roads in Khumulwng, the headquarters of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC).
Later, Dr Saha shared his reaction on social media. The Chief Minister said he felt delighted to see enthusiastic participation. He described the turnout as overwhelming. According to him, the crowd reflected a collective aspiration for a stronger and empowered Tripura.
Transport and Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury joined the programme. BJP Pradesh General Secretary Bipin Debbarma also attended. Several mandal-level leaders remained present throughout the event.
Meanwhile, political observers viewed the procession as a strategic move. They said the rally signalled the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s firm intent to capture the TTAADC in the upcoming polls. They believe the show of strength poses a serious challenge to rival parties.
Hundreds of party workers marched alongside the Chief Minister. The procession passed through key roads of the council headquarters town. As a result, the roadshow turned into a powerful display of political mobilisation in the tribal heartland.
The message was clear. The BJP wants to project its focus on Janajati development in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision.
Subsequently, Dr Saha addressed an organisational meeting at the TTAADC headquarters. He stated that the BJP stands fully prepared to form the next executive body in the council.
The Chief Minister added that public trust in Prime Minister Modi and the party’s development agenda has steadily increased over the years.
Referring to the rally’s theme – ‘Empowering Janajati, Empowering Tripura’, Dr Saha said the campaign centres on sustained initiatives for tribal empowerment. He stressed that tribal welfare remains a top priority for his government.
Furthermore, he pointed out that since 2014, Prime Minister Modi has prioritised indigenous development nationwide. He claimed that several central schemes have directly benefited Janajati communities in Tripura.
Dr Saha asserted that only the BJP can ensure long-term and visible progress in the autonomous district council areas. Therefore, he urged voters to extend full support to the party to bring meaningful change in council governance.
He also criticised earlier governments. He alleged that they offered promises without delivery. In contrast, he said, the BJP has started implementing concrete development projects on the ground.
Ahead of the crucial elections, political activity has intensified across the state. Besides the BJP, its ally the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura and the Tipra Motha Party have expanded outreach programmes.
At the same time, the opposition — including the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian National Congress — has stepped up efforts to mobilise tribal voters.
The TTAADC elections are likely in March or April. The council governs nearly two-thirds of Tripura’s geographical area. It holds major political significance. Since 2021, the Tipra Motha Party has controlled the 30-member autonomous body.