A possible internal rift seems to be emerging within the Tipra Motha Party (TMP) ahead of the upcoming Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, following differing statements by party leaders regarding a potential alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Hours after TMP MLA Ranjit Debbarma hinted at a potential collaboration with the BJP, TMP founder and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma categorically denied any finalized alliance. Ranjit Debbarma had indicated that the party might contest the elections in coordination with the BJP and mentioned that Pradyot had held meetings with senior BJP leaders BL Santosh and Sambit Patra.

However, Pradyot clarified in a statement that media reports on the alleged alliance were “incorrect” and stressed that no formal decision had been taken. “While some individuals may have made overtures for an alliance, no such things have happened,” he said.

Pradyot further emphasized the party’s commitment to protecting its political ground in the indigenous areas. “As a regional party, Tipra cannot afford to lose the ground which has been built by our warriors. We believe we are the strongest political party in the indigenous area and we will hold on to our ground. Personal statements made against me are unfortunate and hamper healthy dialogue,” he added.

Political analysts suggest that the contrasting statements from senior party leaders indicate possible friction within TMP ranks, raising questions about the party’s internal cohesion as it heads into the crucial TTAADC polls.