Tipra Motha Minister Animesh Debbarma Speaks Amid Internal Rift
Jayanta Debnath
March 29, 2026
Interview by Jayanta Debnath
Amid intensifying internal tensions within the Tipra Motha Party ahead of the crucial ADC elections, senior leader and Tripura’s Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma has made a candid and thought-provoking observation:
“Politics in today’s world cannot survive solely on ethnic emotion.”
In an exclusive interview with TripuraInfo, one of Tripura’s most widely read news platforms, Debbarma opened up about ideological inconsistencies, leadership concerns, and growing unrest within the party.
Interview
Q: You have made a strong statement that ethnic emotion alone cannot sustain politics. What prompted this remark?
Animesh Debbarma:
Politics today requires clarity, consistency, and long-term vision. While ethnic identity is important, it cannot be the sole foundation of a political movement. Over-reliance on emotional mobilisation without concrete policy direction creates instability and confusion among workers and supporters.
Q: You have raised concerns about shifting slogans within the party. Could you elaborate?
Animesh Debbarma:
Yes, this is a serious issue. In 2021, the core slogan of Tipra Motha was “Greater Tipraland.” Then, ahead of the 2023 Assembly elections, it changed to “This is the last fight,” focusing on a constitutional solution.
Again, during the 2024 parliamentary elections, the narrative shifted toward a “Tiprasa Accord.”
Frequent changes in slogans and messaging send mixed signals. A political party cannot keep altering its ideological stand before every election. It affects credibility and confuses both workers and voters.
Q: You have also hinted at decisions being influenced by personal or familial interests. What do you mean?
Animesh Debbarma:
Certain decisions, such as contesting elections under the Bharatiya Janata Party symbol, appear to have been driven more by personal or family considerations than by collective party interest.
This raises questions about internal democracy and transparency.
Q: You have criticised the leadership of Pradyot Kishore Debbarma. What are your concerns?
Animesh Debbarma:
On one hand, there is a call for ‘Thansa’, unity among Tiprasa people. On the other hand, members of the same family are aligned with different political parties like Congress and BJP.
This creates a contradiction. If we are advocating unity, it must be reflected in actions as well.
Q: There are allegations of corruption within the ADC administration. What is your position?
Animesh Debbarma:
Several senior leaders have raised concerns regarding corruption in the ADC. Despite repeated complaints, no proper investigations were initiated.
There is a perception that certain individuals close to the leadership are being protected. This damages the credibility of the party and governance.
Q: You have also mentioned centralisation of power within the party. Could you explain?
Animesh Debbarma:
Decision-making appears to be increasingly centralised. Voices of dissent are often ignored.
Many senior leaders had warned against adopting divisive or controversial rhetoric, but those concerns were overlooked. This has contributed to growing dissatisfaction within the party.
Q: There are reports of leaders and members leaving the party. How serious is the situation?
Animesh Debbarma:
Yes, the situation is concerning. Several MDCs and Executive Members have already joined the BJP. There are also indications that some MLAs and senior leaders are considering similar moves.
If corrective steps are not taken, this could lead to a major split within the party after the ADC elections.
Q: Recently, a controversy erupted regarding your presence at BJP-related meetings in Ambassa. What is your response?
Animesh Debbarma:
The matter has been blown out of proportion. However, I understand the concerns raised and the sensitivity of the issue.
Q: Senior leader Ranjit Debbarma has alleged that you and Chittaranjan Debbarma attended BJP organisational meetings. How do you address these allegations?
Context (as raised by Ranjit Debbarma):
Ranjit Debbarma has publicly expressed strong dissatisfaction, stating that both MLAs attended meetings in Ambassa and Khowai involving BJP candidates.
He further alleged that Animesh Debbarma has been inactive in Tipra Motha’s campaign and was instead supporting BJP candidates, including David Debbarma, particularly during late hours.
Similar allegations were made against Chittaranjan Debbarma.
Animesh Debbarma: I am involved in politics for the welfare of people from all sections of society. That is why everyone loves me and calls me. And whenever anyone calls me, I always respond.
Q: The meetings reportedly took place at the Ambassa Circuit House. Does this add to the seriousness of the issue?
Animesh Debbarma Observation:
Yes, the fact that the meetings were reportedly held at a government circuit house has made the issue more sensitive and controversial.
This has triggered speculation across political circles in Tripura about possible alignment of certain Tipra Motha leaders with the BJP.
Q: Is disciplinary action likely within the party?
Animesh Debbarma:
Yes, Party may initiate disciplinary proceedings against me.
The remarks by Animesh Debbarma have brought internal contradictions within the Tipra Motha Party into sharp focus. His candid observations on ideological inconsistency, leadership style, and governance issues have not only intensified internal tensions but also sparked wider debate across Tripura’s political landscape.
With the ADC elections approaching, the Tipra Motha party faces a critical juncture. Whether it can address these internal challenges or moves toward a deeper split remains to be seen.
What is clear, however, is that the political narrative in Tripura is entering a decisive and transformative phase.
(Tripurainfo)
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