Agartala, Dec 31: Jiban Basu Chakma, Tripura State President, on Wednesday addressed a press conference at the Agartala Press Club, demanding a public apology from Sukumar Debbarma, VC Chairman of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), over remarks alleged to be offensive to the Chakma community.
Addressing the media along with members of his team, Chakma said the comments, reportedly made at Narikel Kunj, questioned identity and language and had hurt the sentiments of the Chakma community across the state. He described the remarks as irresponsible and inappropriate, particularly as they were made by a person holding a constitutional post.
Chakma stated that the comments had sparked widespread resentment among Chakma people and warned that such statements could disturb communal harmony among Indigenous communities in Tripura. He stressed that leaders in public office must exercise restraint and respect the dignity of all communities.
The Tripura State President demanded an unconditional public apology from the TTAADC VC Chairman and urged the state government to take note of the issue to prevent similar incidents in the future. He also said the Chakma community has a long history of peaceful coexistence with other Indigenous groups and has contributed to the social and cultural fabric of the state.
Chakma added that if no apology is issued, the community may consider democratic forms of protest and other lawful steps, while reiterating the need for unity, mutual respect, and social justice in Tripura.
