Agitation within Tripura’s ruling BJP alliance intensified on Friday as TIPRA Motha, junior partner in the state government, accused the administration of illegally encroaching on Sixth Schedule areas under the newly notified Bishramganj Nagar Panchayat. The dispute comes just two months ahead of crucial Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections.

TIPRA Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, accompanied by TTAADC officials, met Sepahijala district authorities seeking clarification on Nagar Panchayat boundaries, claiming nearly 30% of the notified area falls under ADC jurisdiction. Debbarma criticized the administration for relying on “natural boundaries” and voter rolls instead of legally sanctioned maps, asserting that the expansion violates constitutional safeguards. He warned of a potential legal challenge through Public Interest Litigation and insisted that ADC land must not be encroached upon.

Binky Saha, SDM Bishramganj, acknowledged the absence of official maps clearly demarcating Gram Panchayat and Village Committee areas. She stated that a joint demarcation exercise would follow consultation with the Directorate of Land Records and Settlement. Saha maintained that only Gram Panchayat areas were included and no ADC land was incorporated.

Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha downplayed the controversy, insisting that no land was acquired and alleging attempts to create confusion.

The sharp disagreement highlights growing tensions within the BJP–TIPRA Motha alliance, with TIPRA expected to focus on land rights and tribal autonomy in the upcoming ADC elections. Bishramganj has emerged as a key flashpoint, signaling possible strains in the partnership ahead of the polls.