IPFT Balances Alliance and Tribal Politics, Flags Risk of Unrest
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Agartala
- Sep 13, 2025
- 578
The Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), once the strongest voice for the demand of Tipraland, now finds itself in a delicate balancing act. As a coalition partner in the BJP-led state government, it must maintain its relevance among tribal voters while ensuring that its role in government is not undermined by escalating tensions in the state.
The trigger for IPFT’s latest maneuver was the statement from Amara Bengali Dal, a comparatively smaller political outfit, which accused tribal-centric forces of endangering law and order. By publicly voicing concerns about such remarks, IPFT is signaling two things at once: first, it wants to reassure its core tribal constituency that it will not remain silent in the face of provocation; second, it is attempting to project itself as a responsible stakeholder in governance, committed to stability and order.
The August 23 Bodhjang Chowmuhni meeting, where Tipraland’s demand was once again raised, continues to shape the political atmosphere. Although IPFT’s organizational strength has been dented by the rise of Tipra Motha, the party cannot afford to abandon the core issue that built its identity. At the same time, IPFT leaders appear wary of being cornered by accusations of fueling unrest. This explains their cautious line — acknowledging that tensions could escalate, but not claiming law and order has already broken down.
Strategically, by writing to Chief Minister Manik Saha, the IPFT aims to keep its alliance politics alive. It seeks to remind the BJP that tribal issues remain politically sensitive and cannot be ignored, especially with the 2028 Assembly elections not too far away. This step also helps the IPFT retain bargaining power, at a time when its political space has been squeezed both by the BJP’s outreach to tribal areas and Tipra Motha’s aggressive push for Greater Tipraland.
For the BJP, this is both an opportunity and a warning. On one hand, having an ally like IPFT push for moderation helps the government project inclusivity. On the other, it underscores the persistent ethnic divide between tribal and Bengali populations in Tripura — a divide that has historically defined the state’s politics. Any misstep could widen that rift, especially if smaller parties like Amara Bengali Dal succeed in mobilizing counter-narratives.
In sum, IPFT’s latest stance reflects a cautious recalibration: staying relevant in tribal politics while preserving its role in governance. Whether this strategy pays off will depend on how successfully it can prevent escalating tensions while also convincing its base that it has not abandoned the struggle for autonomy.