154 Voters from 35 Families Join Tipra Motha in Santirbazar, BJP Suffers Setback

By  Firstdespatch Desk   May 29, 2026

Agartala, May 29 (FD) The ruling BJP suffered a significant political setback in Tripura’s Santirbazar (No. 36) Assembly constituency after 154 voters belonging to 35 families, including several non-tribals, joined the Tipra Motha Party during a programme held under the Kathaliacherra panchayat on Thursday.

The joining programme took place at the residence of local Tipra Motha leader Moni Debnath and was attended by several party functionaries, including MDC Kenaram Reang, Tipra Motha central committee member Saleem Mia, block president Pratap Reang, and local leaders Ajay Saha and Raju Majumder. The new entrants were reportedly former supporters of both the BJP and the CPI(M).

Senior party leader Harendra Reang and MDC Kenaram Reang welcomed the new members by presenting them with traditional “Risa” scarves and urged them to work for the party for the “true development” of Tripura.

Speaking on behalf of the new entrants, Moni Debnath alleged that the BJP had failed to fulfil its promises and accused the party of indulging in corrupt practices at the cost of the people. He expressed confidence that Tipra Motha would work in the interest of the common people.

Political observers in the area described the defection of 154 voters as a major setback for the BJP in Santirbazar, indicating growing dissatisfaction among grassroots workers and supporters. Sources attributed the development to the alleged failure of local BJP leaders to deliver on promises made during elections and claimed that party workers had become frustrated due to a lack of engagement from senior leaders after the ADC polls.

Sources further alleged that the absence of local MLA Pramod Reang from active political activities in the constituency had contributed to the discontent among BJP supporters. They warned that unless the BJP addresses the prevailing ground-level issues, the party may face further erosion of its support base in Santirbazar. FD JK