In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing standoff, members of the TIPRA Motha’s youth wing today sealed the office of the Gomati District Magistrate, following through on their earlier warnings. The move came after days of tension sparked by DM Tarit Kanti Chakma’s refusal to meet TIPRA chairman Pradyot Manikya Bahadur, who had visited the DM’s residence at night, outside official hours.
The youth leaders of TIPRA Motha had issued a public ultimatum demanding accountability from the state administration and a formal response from the Chief Secretary. With no resolution in sight, the protesters took matters into their own hands by locking down the district administration office in Udaipur on June 2.
Videos and images from the scene show banners and locks placed at the gates of the DM office, with slogans condemning the administration and demanding respect for indigenous leadership.
The incident has triggered sharp public reactions, with many criticizing the apparent failure of the police and district administration to prevent the disruption. Locals and observers say the situation reflects a serious lapse in governance and law enforcement, especially given that the protest action was publicly announced in advance.
“The administration has completely failed to control the situation,” said a local resident. “This could have been avoided if the concerns of the indigenous leaders were addressed seriously and timely.”
Meanwhile, TIPRA Motha leaders have reiterated that the protest is peaceful but firm, and they will not back down until they receive a formal apology and assurance of administrative accountability.
As of now, government offices in Gomati remain non-functional, and the district is on high alert. Political analysts warn that this conflict could deepen the existing rift between the tribal leadership and the state government, unless a conciliatory step is taken soon.
