Communal Tensions Surge in Tripura After Pradyot Kishore’s Facebook Post Sparks Threats Against Bengalis?

Agartala, January 27, 2024: TIPRA Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarma’s recent Facebook post has ignited communal tensions in Tripura, with open threats of violence against Bengalis emerging on his social media platform. Kishore’s silence on the threats is being viewed as indirect support to the brazen suggestions.

In a post on Facebook, Kishore shared a letter from a person seeking unused lands in the ADC from the West Tripura District Magistrate for non-tribals. Kishore’s quick and strong reaction, stating that no land would be given in the 6th schedule areas and urging settlement elsewhere in India, triggered a volatile response.

Comments on the post included severe attacks against Bengalis, labeling them as Bangladeshis. Ronald Debbarma openly threatened to massacre Bengalis, sparing no one, including girls and babies. Despite such alarming statements, Kishore neither opposed nor deleted the threats.

One commenter, Abhiram Reang, expressed shock, stating, “We will spill blood but enough.” Kishore responded with a simple “No violence,” but Ronald Debbarma argued that violence is the only solution for the central government to take them seriously, and Kishore remained silent.

This open propagation of violence and Pradyot Kishore’s silence is seen as encouragement for bloodthirsty elements among his followers. The entire episode, from the letter to the DM to its immediate publication on Kishore’s personal FB wall, raises concerns about a conspiracy to incite violence and communal tension before the Lok Sabha elections.

With no official decision from the government on settling Bengalis in TTAADC areas, the situation is perceived as an attempt to create unrest. The aftermath of Kishore’s post includes the demolition of several Bengali houses, further escalating tensions. Authorities are urged to address the volatile situation promptly to prevent any escalation of violence.