Agartala: A delegation of Twipra Students Federation (TSF) on Tuesday met Secretary of Tripura Public Service Commission and urged him to reschedule the preliminary exams which fall on December 22; the day widely observed by the tribal communities as Tring festival which means the beginning of new year as per the Tiprasa Calendar.
On that day, people participate in night-long celebrations across the state to embrace the new year with pomp and grandeur.
Speaking on the issue, Vice President of TSF John Debbarma said, “Conducting exams on the day of Tring amounts to hurting the sentiments of people hailing from the indigenous communities of Tripura. Can the TPSC dare to conduct exams on the day of Eid and Durga Puja or for that matter Laxmi Puja,” he asked.
The students’ body also submitted a letter addressing the chairman of TPSC describing their grievances with the exam dates.
“As you are aware, Twipra Bisi (Twipra Era) is celebrated across the state of Tripura on 22nd December*each year. The celebrations begin with a grand cultural program on the night of 21st December, marked by traditional songs, dances, and other cultural performances. It is also worth mentioning that the TTAADC has officially declared a holiday on 22nd December in honor of this significant day, which reflects the rich history and culture of the indigenous people of Tripura,” the letter reads describing the significance of the day.
Asking for review of the exam dates, the letter added: “Sir, as a prestigious public service recruitment body, the TPSC holds a significant place in the state. Scheduling an examination on 22nd December 2024 would not only inconvenience candidates belonging to the indigenous community, who will be in a festive mood during Twipra Bisi*, but it may also hurt the sentiments of the indigenous people across the state. Such a situation may send an unintended message of disregard for the cultural identity of Tripura’s indigenous population. In view of the above, we, the Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF), humbly request your kind authority to consider rescheduling the date of the Preliminary Examination for Miscellaneous Posts under the Combined Competitive Examination to a more suitable date. We hope for your understanding and positive consideration of our request.”
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