IPFT Criticizes Chief Minister's Remarks on Kokborok Script, Warns Against Unnecessary Interference

Agartala:TheIndigenous People’s Front of Tripura(IPFT), a junior ally of the BJP, on Monday criticised Chief MinisterManik Sahaover his remarks on the script to be used for Kokborok, saying he should avoid interfering with the mother tongue of a different community.The reaction comes amid widening differences within the ruling alliance, particularly betweenTipra Mothaand the BJP, over the demand for adoption of the Roman script for the Kokborok language.In recent political speeches, the Chief Minister opposed the use of the Roman script and argued in favour of an Indian-origin script, suggesting that Kokborok speakers could even consider developing a new script instead of adopting what he described as a foreign one.IPFT General Secretary Swapan Debbarma said the issue of script must be determined by those who speak and use the language regularly. “The Chief Minister’s mother tongue is Bengali. He should refrain from making unnecessary statements on the issue. Which script is better for Kokborok shall be decided by those who practice the language in day-to-day life. Any opinion expressed by someone who is not well-versed in the language should be treated as unnecessary interference. The Chief Minister should also understand that he doesn’t have to have an opinion on everything,” Debbarma said.Referring to past political developments, Debbarma cautioned the ruling BJP against disregarding sentiments in the hills. “The Left lost its political grip in the hilly region of the state because it opposed the Roman script without any valid justification. Hence, the ruling party must keep in mind that political power is not permanent,” he said.He further indicated that the Chief Minister’s remarks might reflect a personal view rather than a formal policy position. “It could be the Chief Minister’s personal opinion. He might have his own view on the matter, but neither the BJP nor the government has made any official policy decision in this regard. In the board exams, which are supposed to start in a couple of days from now, the students are at liberty to write their answer sheets in both Roman and Bengali scripts,” Debbarma added.Related