The Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), a key ally in the BJP-led state government, on Friday once again reiterated its core demand for a separate state, vowing to continue its struggle through democratic means.

Addressing a rally in Agartala on the occasion of Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) Day, IPFT general secretary and Cooperation Minister Shukla Charan Noatia alleged that the former Left Front government had repeatedly tried to weaken the organization, but the party had managed to regain its strength and unity.

“Our journey began in 2009 under the leadership of late N.C. Debbarma, with the central demand of full statehood for the autonomous district. That demand remains unchanged even today,” Noatia said. He also recalled that in 2016 the then Left regime did not allow the party to hold a rally in Agartala, and that IPFT supporters were allegedly attacked by CPI(M) cadres.

“But today, in 2025, we are again holding a public meeting in Agartala. This shows that IPFT is back. Our fight will continue through democratic means,” he added.

Speaking to journalists, IPFT president Prem Kumar Reang said TTAADC Day has been observed since 2008 to mark the constitutional recognition of the council. “On August 23, 1984, then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi introduced a special law in Parliament to safeguard the interests of Sixth Schedule communities, leading to the creation of TTAADC. Since then, we have been commemorating the day,” he said.

Reang further announced that the party would intensify its movement in the coming days by holding meetings across districts and sub-divisions to mobilize support for its political and constitutional demands.

“Our initiatives will continue to push for a separate state with the Centre,” he asserted.