Royal scion of Tripura and founder of the Tipra Motha Party, Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarm today warned that India must take a firm stand on what he described as growing threats from Bangladesh and long-pending injustices faced by the indigenous people of Tripura.
He also repeated his party’s long-standing demand that Kokborok must be written in Roman script, and not in Bengali script, until an indigenous script is developed.
The press conference was held in Agartala and Pradyot said it was likely to be the last press briefing of the year. He stressed that the sentiment of the indigenous community must be respected by both the Government of India and the state government. 
Pradyot said that the script issue has always been central to Tipra Motha’s struggle, and that the party will not alter its stand.
He said that the demand for Roman script is not new and not negotiable. The party wants Kokborok and Kaubru to be written in the script chosen by indigenous people, which according to him should be Roman script.
He questioned how examinations could be written if the government insists on continuing the Bengali script until an indigenous script is developed. He said competitive exams, UPSC papers, judiciary entrance and other papers are still conducted in Bengali, which according to him denies equal rights to indigenous students.
Pradyot said that he respects the Chief Minister’s suggestion about developing an indigenous script for Kokborok, but asked how long such a process would take and what students should do in the meantime. Until a practical solution is available, he said, Roman script must be accepted.
A major part of Pradyot’s speech focused on Bangladesh. He warned the Centre that minority and indigenous communities across the border are being attacked, and that extremist statements coming from Bangladesh threaten the Northeast region of India.
Pradyot pointed to recent violence and protests in Bangladesh, saying that some groups there are targeting Hindus, Buddhists, Christians and indigenous populations. He claimed that leaders across the border are openly discussing breaking the Northeast, and trying to turn public sentiment against India by protesting outside Indian embassies.
He expressed shock that some sections in India suggested that Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should be handed over to Bangladesh, even when violence and threats against minorities there are ongoing.
He alleged that political leaders who speak loudly about patriotism are silent on Bangladesh aggression, while Tipra Motha, often labelled as “goons,” is the one raising concerns about minorities across the border.
He warned that the situation in Bangladesh could destabilise the Northeast if not taken seriously. He even compared Bangladesh to Pakistan, saying it is becoming a “mini Pakistan” that openly talks about disturbing peace in the Northeast and encouraging anti-India groups.
Pradyot also spoke on cricket and accused India of double standards. He pointed out that a Bangladeshi cricketer signed an IPL contract worth ₹9.20 crore, while many talented young players in the Northeast, such as Manishankar Muras Singh, continue to be ignored.
He said that when Pakistan acted against India, the country banned Pakistani players from participating in leagues. He questioned why Bangladesh continues to be treated differently even though, according to him, Bangladeshi leaders publicly speak against India and openly make threats.
He argued that sports and politics cannot be separated when national security and dignity are at stake.
Pradyot urged the Government of India to take a tough stand against Bangladesh and to protect the Northeast states. He said that the rights, land, dignity and identity of indigenous communities must be protected firmly and without delay.
He expressed concern that young indigenous people could be misguided if outside forces attempt to influence them. He said the Centre must address constitutional rights related to land and language immediately, and not divert attention through threats or political rhetoric.
Pradyot acknowledged recent clashes in places such as Chorilam, Bishramganj and Mandai, and said that violence must be stopped by both sides. He said he was in touch with the Chief Minister and that both of them oppose violence.
However, he condemned statements made by leaders against Tipra Motha, including one minister allegedly threatening to “smash” party supporters like chickens. He said such language provokes anger and shifts the focus away from genuine issues like land rights and language rights.
Pradyot also claimed that parties that promised constitutional reforms earlier have failed to honour them, even though they mentioned amendments, direct funding for autonomous councils, and a Central university in their election manifestos.
Pradyot thanked all those who joined Tipra Motha rallies in recent days, including non-political individuals. He expressed gratitude to the Bengali community members who supported the protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission and said that mutual respect between communities is necessary for Tripura’s development.
He said that the demand for Roman script should not be framed as anti-Bengali. He said it is about preserving Triprasa identity and dignity, not taking away rights from others.
He invoked Bangladesh’s own history to explain his stand. He reminded that when Pakistan imposed Urdu on East Pakistan, the language movement emerged and Bangladesh was born. He said forcing unwanted language or script leads to resistance and trauma, and Tripura must learn from history.
Pradyot referred to past riots across the border in Khulna, Comilla and Brahmanbaria, saying these events must be acknowledged because they affected people in Tripura as well. He said those who commit violence and attempt to divide communities are across the border, not within India.
He said the real threat comes from extremists trying to break India, yet political leaders inside the country continue to attack fellow Indians instead of addressing cross-border threats.
Pradyot appealed for unity among indigenous people, Bengalis, tribals and non-tribals. He said Tripura will only progress if dignity and equality are ensured for all. Tipra Motha demands equal constitutional rights and resolution of long-standing issues, including land ownership and language.
He said the script choice must be left to the indigenous community itself. The government must facilitate a solution and not impose decisions.
He urged the Centre to treat the language issue and Bangladesh tensions seriously before frustration spills over into instability in the Northeast.
