HT Correspondent
AGARTALA, Nov 20: Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma on Wednesday strongly condemned the ongoing violence in Manipur, emphasising that the crisis must be resolved internally rather than relying on external intervention. He warned that the unrest is jeopardising the future of the next generation.
In a heartfelt video message, Pradyot expressed grief over recent events, referencing his earlier condemnation of a brutal murder involving a woman and a young child.
“Some days ago, I spoke out against this heinous act, and while many supported me, others questioned why I didn’t address it sooner. Let me clarify—I condemned the murder of the mother and child on November 7. Last year, when two Kuki women were raped, I was among the first to speak up. Allegations that I remain silent due to political alliances are unfounded. My stance has always been clear: no alliance or position will deter me from condemning such acts. Rape, murder, or violence of any form cannot be justified. Staying silent today will only allow a monster to grow within our society,” he said.
Pradyot also criticised the ongoing cycle of blame surrounding the Manipur issue.
“This blame game—’You did it first, so I’ll retaliate’—serves no purpose except to drag us backwards. People ask, ‘Where are Congress and BJP?’ But let’s be honest: no one from Delhi will come to save us. The responsibility lies with us. When election results in other states like Maharashtra come in, national attention will shift there, and we risk being forgotten. The solution to this crisis must come from within,” he remarked.
As the royal scion of Tripura, Pradyot called out the lack of leadership in Manipur’s ruling and opposition parties.
“Where is the vision of Manipur’s leaders? Violence achieves nothing but destruction—it robs our children of a brighter future. Those whose homes have been burned and livelihoods destroyed are the ones suffering. I appeal to everyone: stop fighting over religion, tribe, or community. To be heard, to grow economically, and to be part of India’s success story, we need collective leadership and unity. Peace and progress should be our shared goals,” he urged.