The activists of Tripura Indigenous Students Federation (TISF), the student’s wing of the Opposition TIPRA Motha Party organized a rally in support of introduction Roman script for writing Kokbarok the language of the state’s indigenous people in the CBSE.
The students were also supposed to submit a deputation to the Governor of Tripura on Wednesday in support of the demand.
The TISF activists have been demanding the introduction of Roman script for writing Kokbarok in CBSE as most of schools under the CBSE and it is difficult for the indigenous students to write Kokbarok in Bengali script.
However, as the incident unfolded, a scuffle broke out between the supporters of the TISF and the Police while the demonstrators were marching ahead toward the Governor’s house.
Initially Police erected barricades to stop the rally.
Later Police burst tear gas and used water cannons to disperse the demonstrators. In the incident, several students were reported to sustain injuries and were admitted to the GB Hospital.
The demonstrators vehemently condemned the Police action and sought the intervention of Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha who also holds the portfolio of the Home Department.
Opposition leader Animesh Debbarma and ADC CEM Purnachandra Jamatia visited GB Hospital to inquire about the health conditions of the injured protestors.
During a media interaction, Debbarma revealed that three students were currently receiving medical treatment at GB Hospital, with one of them requiring oxygen support.
Condemning the alleged assault on the “peaceful” demonstrators, Debbarma questioned the police’s use of tear gas and water cannons without prior warning or announcement.
“Why did Police did this to the demonstrators who were peaceful”, he asked.
He demanded a high level investigation into the police actions and said it is up to the government at what level the investigation will be carried out. The Opposition leader also called for strict action against those responsible for the day’s events. Debbarma further urged the government to ensure proper medical care for the injured protestors.