Tripura Students’ Federation Blocks State-Wide Roads, Demands Roman Script for Kokborok Language
In a significant display of unity, the Tipra Students’ Federation (TSF), backed by its parent organization, TIPRA Motha, a coalition partner of the ruling BJP-led government, has launched a statewide road blockade to demand the introduction of the Roman script for the Kokborok language. The protest, which started on Monday, has significantly disrupted daily life in Tripura, particularly affecting students preparing for their CBSE and Tripura Board examinations.
The protesters, who blocked various transportation routes, including railways, highways, and the city’s VIP Road, hampered the movement of students, employees, daily commuters, and even MLAs and ministers attending the budget session. Pradyot Kishore Debbarman, the founder of TIPRA Motha, joined the protesters and urged the government to address the long-standing issue of the Kokborok language.
Notably, the protest has received an unusual amount of tolerance from the government, which is known for its firm stance against opposition protests. Transport and Food Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, who encountered the blockade near Circuit House while traveling to the Legislative Assembly, simply chose to leave the area without attempting to resolve the situation.
The impact of the blockade has been significant, with students unable to reach their examination centers on time throughout the state. While the law enforcement agencies were present at the protest sites, they maintained a passive stance, allowing the blockade to continue.
The demand for the Roman script is seen as a crucial step in the linguistic and economic development of the Kokborok-speaking population, which makes up a significant portion of Tripura’s demographic. The script is expected to facilitate better education, communication, and economic opportunities for the community, which has long struggled with limited resources and opportunities.
As the standoff continues, the government and the protest leaders are engaged in talks to resolve the issue. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the future of the Kokborok language and the well-being of the community.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/tsf-road-blockade-hits-examinees/articleshow/119314572.cms
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Publish Date: 2025-03-21 23:47:00
