Agartala, Jan 19: On the occasion of the 48th Kokborok Day, Tripura royal scion and Tipra Motha Party founder Pradyot Manikya Debbarma shared an audio message on social media, extending greetings to the people of Tiprasa while strongly voicing concerns over the ongoing language and script-related issues in the state.
In his message, Royal Scion Pradyot Manikya said that while Kokborok Day should be a moment of pride and celebration, certain developments left him deeply saddened. He pointed out that placards displayed during the celebrations were written in the Bengali script, despite long-standing demands for Kokborok to be written in its own preferred script. Calling it a matter of “disrespect,” he said such actions undermine the sentiments of the Kokborok-speaking community.
The Tipra Motha founder also expressed anguish over the detention of students who attempted to protest peacefully in support of their linguistic rights. He questioned the law-and-order priorities, stating that while criminals and smugglers move freely, students raising their voices for constitutional and cultural rights are being detained by the police.
Emphasising inclusivity, Pradyot Manikya said he wants all languages in Tripura to flourish, including Bengali, Mog, Chakma, Mizo, Halam, Kaipru and Kokborok. However, he warned that forcing students to appear in examinations under pressure to use a script not of their choice could eventually lead to unrest.
He urged the people of Tiprasa to understand that progress and dignity are possible only when rightful demands are respected. “No external force can decide the future of our children,” he said, adding that the movement is not limited to a single day.
Stating that while today is Kokborok Day and tomorrow may bring another issue, Pradyot Manikya asserted that the struggle will continue for rights, for the future, and for the coming generations.
