Agartala: The second round of talks on the Tiprasa Accord was held in New Delhi on Tuesday, with discussions covering a range of critical issues, including the upgradation of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) and the establishment of a central university within the district council areas.
Tipra Motha Party founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarman briefed media persons after the meeting, expressing satisfaction with the progress made. “All the issues raised before the central government were discussed in detail during the meeting. Topics such as land rights, the upgradation of TTAADC, and setting up a central university were deliberated thoroughly. Additionally, confusion surrounding some issues was resolved through positive discussions,” said Debbarman.
He described the meeting as productive and confirmed that the third round of talks is expected to take place in late January or early February.
Regarding the TTAADC, Debbarman stated, “A separate presentation was made to the Special Advisor to the North East, A.K. Mishra, who directed the state government to prepare a comprehensive presentation on accelerating development in Sixth Schedule areas. By the time the third round of talks is held, clarity on the pending 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill in Parliament may also emerge. This Bill could address many of the demands we have put forward.”
On the ongoing controversy surrounding royal palace properties, Debbarman maintained his stance, rejecting claims that several historical sites were converted into banquet halls. “Arguments that Chandra Mahal, Golap Bagan, Manikya Court, and Bholaghiri were transformed into marriage venues are baseless. There were no palaces in these locations. I run a hotel in Shillong called Tripura Castle, but the royal palace itself is solely for my personal accommodation,” he clarified.
Debbarman criticized the government for not consulting him or the royal family before considering changes to the main structure of the royal palace built by the Maharajas. “The infrastructure was handed over for use as accommodation for the Governor. If it is suddenly converted into a hotel without proper consultation, people will naturally feel hurt,” he said.
The Tipra Motha Party leader emphasized the need for clear communication and transparency from the government regarding any plans involving historical and cultural assets of the region.
As the talks progress, the Tiprasa Accord negotiations are expected to address key demands that could significantly impact the socio-political and economic landscape of the tribal areas in Tripura.
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