Tensions flared in Tripura’s Dhalai district today as a group of indigenous people protested against Jitendra Chaudhury, the opposition leader and CPI(M) state secretary. They accused him of insulting the ‘Risha,’ a traditional handwoven garment significant to the tribal community. The protestors, numbering around 100, waved black flags and obstructed Chaudhury’s convoy for approximately thirty minutes, demanding a public apology.
The incident took place at Nailaha Bari on the National Highway in Ambassa while Chaudhury was heading to a party event. In anticipation of the protest, security forces and personnel from the Tripura State Rifles were deployed to the area. Protestors shouted slogans such as “go back” and firmly held their black flags, voicing their grievances. Police intervened to ensure Chaudhury’s safety, escorting him past the protest site.
One protester expressed their outrage, stating, “Jitendra Chaudhury has insulted Risha. He must apologize. Otherwise, we will intensify the movement across the state.” Chaudhury, however, refuted the claims of insult, suggesting that misinformation was being propagated by the BJP’s Janajati Morcha. He highlighted his past contributions as the Information and Cultural Affairs Minister, saying, “I officially introduced Risha in Tripura. Even today, I keep a Risha along my spine as a symbol of respect for the tribals.”
Chaudhury also suggested that the protest was politically motivated, orchestrated by the ruling BJP. “The BJP is losing ground, and that is why they staged this drama today. If they care so much about democracy, why are they not holding village committee elections?” he challenged.
This incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding indigenous cultural symbols in Tripura, with the Risha garment holding profound cultural significance for the tribal communities in the region.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/tripura/story/indigenous-youths-protest-tripura-lop-over-alleged-disrespect-to-traditional-handwoven-tribal-attire-1275644-2025-09-10?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-09-10 20:28:00
