Tripura BJP leader denies joining Tipra Motha, alleges false claims by ruling ally

Agartala: A BJP leader on Tuesday accused the Tipra Motha Party, a ruling ally in Tripura, of falsely claiming that she had quit the BJP and joined its ranks, alleging that her presence at a public meeting was misrepresented through announcements and social media posts.

The leader, Radhamala Debbarma, said she had gone to the Tipra Motha public meeting at Demdum village only to meet party supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarman, and not with any intention of switching allegiance.

Debbarma said she was informed by local workers that Debbarman wished to meet her. “Despite political differences, Maharaj is a respected personality for all of us. On receiving the message, I went to the meeting venue, which is very close to my residence. However, as soon as I arrived, announcements were made claiming that I had formally joined the Tipra Motha Party,” she said.

She alleged that her photographs and videos were subsequently circulated on social media to create a false impression that she had resigned from the BJP and joined Tipra Motha.

Addressing the same press conference, BJP state general secretary Bipin Debbarma said the claim of Radhamala Debbarma joining Tipra Motha was completely baseless.

He said her visit to the venue was a matter of courtesy, as the meeting was being held near her house.

“When a leader of such stature comes close to one’s residence, it is customary to greet him. She did exactly that. However, Tipra Motha leader Dhirendra Debbarma twisted the incident and publicly declared that she had joined the party,” he said.

He further alleged that party workers stood behind her holding Tipra Motha flags to mislead viewers, adding that in none of the visuals was she seen holding the party flag or making any declaration of joining the outfit.

The BJP demanded that Tipra Motha refrain from what it termed misleading political propaganda and respect democratic norms, party leaders said.