Agartala: Two days after Tipra Motha leader David Murasing, who is currently leading a march to New Delhi, made communally charged remarks, party founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarman asserted that no criminal should be judged based on caste, community, or religion.
Tipra Motha activist David Murasing, who is infamous for making disturbing comments—especially those targeting the Bengali community—posted a controversial message on social media on August 6.
In his post, he claimed that people from Bengali communities were responsible for the rapes and murders of Tiprasa (tribal) women. He further alleged that Bengalis interfere in all political matters related to the development of tribal communities and try to create impediments.
Murasing also accused Bengalis of indulging in coercive activities to extort money as “donations” from tribal people during Durga Puja, claiming that the latter never forced Bengalis for Puja subscriptions during their own festivals.
The comments, which were perceived as offensive by the Bengali community, triggered massive backlash. Bengalis, who constitute the majority in the mixed-populated state, reacted sharply to the statement, putting the Tipra Motha party in an embarrassing situation.
Distancing himself and the party from David Murasing’s remarks, Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarman wrote: “No matter what anyone says, a rapist or a molester does not have a religion, caste, or community. The person who is sick in the mind is a danger for every woman, including their own family members, neighbours, and friends. A sex offender is a criminal, and he has no religion, community, or caste.”
Sources in Tipra Motha said that David Murasing had been reprimanded by the party high command for his statement. However, despite the party’s clear stand, he has yet to withdraw his post.
Murasing’s social media comment came in the wake of the Bishramganja violence.
A young girl was allegedly molested inside a moving bus, which led to widespread violence and vandalism. Prohibitory orders were issued to bring the situation under control.
Meanwhile, two persons have been arrested in connection with the molestation charges and the subsequent violence.
According to police, a person identified as Sukumar Banik has been arrested in connection with the molestation case lodged by the victim. Another person, identified as Sanjib Debbarma, was also detained in connection with the violence that broke out that night.
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