Tripura: BJP promises territorial council, Kokborok recognition in TTAADC poll manifesto
Khumulwng: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Sunday released its 29-point manifesto for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, promising to upgrade the existing council into a territorial body with enhanced constitutional safeguards.
The “Sankalpa Patra” was unveiled in the presence of Chief Minister Manik Saha and state BJP president Rajib Bhattacharjee, outlining proposals focused on administrative restructuring, development and welfare in tribal areas.
Senior party leader Rebati Tripura said the proposed Tripura Autonomous Territorial Council would aim to strengthen socio-economic development, protect customary practices and promote tribal languages, including Kokborok.
Among key promises, the manifesto proposes the establishment of a medical college in Dhalai district and a nursing and paramedical institute in Khumulwng. It also includes plans to expand rural market infrastructure and improve office facilities in Village Committee areas, alongside provisions for democratically elected Village Committees and preservation of traditional laws and practices.
The party has outlined economic initiatives such as setting up training centres for handloom and handicrafts across all zones, promoting self-help groups and enhancing income opportunities for tribal women. It has also proposed dedicated centres for bamboo-based products and traditional weaving.
In the sports and cultural sectors, the manifesto promises a football academy and a martial arts training centre, along with measures to promote traditional medicinal practices and prepare a comprehensive development plan for Khumulwng.
The document further commits to improving basic services, including electrification, piped drinking water and solar lighting across ADC areas. It also proposes skill development programmes and start-up support for youth, along with housing assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and targeted support for jhum cultivators.
Addressing reporters, Saha said development in ADC areas has seen improvement since 2018, citing progress in road connectivity and drinking water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
“If the territorial council is established, it will bring additional constitutional safeguards and benefits,” he said.
Responding to allegations of corruption in the council, the Chief Minister said action would be taken if the party returns to power, adding that any intervention at present could be seen as interference in an autonomous body.
He also dismissed claims of inadequate fund allocation, stating that detailed figures had already been presented in the state Assembly.