Tripura: TSF Welcomes CM’s Statement but Vows to Continue Agitation for Roman Script

Tripura: Agitation for Roman Script: Debbarma further justified their demand, stating that it reflects the needs of indigenous people.

A day after Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha expressed his willingness to resolve the long-standing Kokborok script issue, the Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF) welcomed his statement but reiterated their commitment to continue their agitation for the adoption of the Roman script until a permanent solution is achieved.

Speaking to the media, TSF Vice President John Debbarma acknowledged the Chief Minister’s remarks in the Assembly but confirmed that their movement would proceed as planned from Monday. He emphasised that a solution must come through dialogue, adding that no communication had been initiated by the government regarding discussions with TSF.

The TSF urged the government to consider their demand for printing Kokborok textbooks and examination papers in the Roman script alongside Bengali, arguing that it is a necessity for Tripura’s indigenous people. Debbarma pointed out that two previous language commissions had recommended adopting the Roman script for Kokborok:

• One led by MLA and tribal literary figure Shyama Charan Tripura
• Another by linguist Dr. Pabitra Sarkar

However, despite their recommendations, the Roman script was not adopted.

Addressing concerns about the strike disrupting traffic and blocking ambulances or board exam candidates, Debbarma denied any such incidents, instead calling on the government to ensure peace by resolving the issue.

“We called for a strike to demand the use of the Roman script for textbooks and question papers. We have seen the Chief Minister’s response, where he stated that he is looking for a solution. We also believe that a solution can be achieved through dialogue, which is why we are ready for discussions. However, we cannot compromise on our demands,” he said.

Debbarma further justified their demand, stating that it reflects the needs of indigenous people.

“We must achieve what we need. We are not against any script, but we are solely demanding the implementation of the Roman script. This is a genuine demand. Several committees have recommended this change in the past. The government must recognise the legitimacy of our demand and work toward a solution,” he added.

It needs to be mentioned that yesterday, the TSF, along with the Tipra Indigenous Students Federation (TISF) and other organisations, staged a statewide protest, blocking national highways to push for the adoption of the Roman script for Kokborok.

With both sides acknowledging the need for a solution, all eyes are now on the Tripura government’s next move in resolving the script dispute.

Also Read: TSF Blocks VIP Road to Tripura Assembly on First Day of Budget Session, Demands Roman Script for Kokborok

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