Agartala | Staff Reporter, Tripura 24.in
The demand for the Roman Script for the Kokborok language intensified today as thousands of activists and students took to the streets of Agartala. In a powerful display of unity, several indigenous organizations, including TISF (Tipra Indigenous Students’ Federation), TSF (Tripura Students’ Federation), and the United Movement for Kokborok, organized a massive human chain demonstration at the Vivekananda Ground (Astabal Maidan).
Collaborative Movement for Linguistic Identity
The protestors formed a human chain that stretched along the main roads adjacent to Astabal Maidan, raising slogans for the immediate constitutional recognition of the Roman script. The leadership of the United Movement for Kokborok emphasized that the script issue is not just a demand but a struggle for the preservation of their linguistic identity.
Key points raised during the demonstration:
- Academic Clarity: Leaders argued that the Roman script is more accessible and widely preferred by the Kokborok-speaking student community.
- Persistent Neglect: Speakers expressed frustration over the delay in official implementation despite years of democratic protests.
- Unified Front: The collaboration between TISF, TSF, and other groups signaled a synchronized effort across the state.
Parallel Protest at North Gate by TIPRA Motha
Simultaneously, another significant human chain was organized in front of the Agartala Heritage Park (North Gate). This wing of the protest was spearheaded by the student and youth wings of TIPRA Motha, supported by various tribal social organizations.
The North Gate area witnessed a heavy turnout of youth activists who held placards and banners. The leaders of the TIPRA Motha youth wing reiterated that the Roman script is essential for the future of indigenous education. They warned that the movement would transition into a more rigorous phase if the authorities continued to ignore the demand.
Impact on Traffic and Security
The dual demonstrations led to significant traffic diversions in the capital city. A large contingent of the Tripura Police and TSR (Tripura State Rifles) was deployed at both Astabal Maidan and the North Gate area to ensure the situation remained peaceful. Despite the heat and the large crowds, the movement remained disciplined, focusing on their cultural and linguistic agenda.
