Amidst the Kokborok exam script controversy, the Tripura government has stood firm on its decision to allow Tiprasa students the choice of writing exams in Kokborok, Roman script, or Bangla language and script. The announcement came following widespread protests and demands for linguistic inclusion and fairness in the examination process.
The controversy erupted when students protested against the Tripura Board of Secondary Education's (TBSE) decision to restrict tribal students from answering Kokborok language papers in the Roman script. This decision sparked outrage among the indigenous communities, leading to vocal demonstrations and calls for action.
Addressing the issue on social media, Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, the founder and former Chairman of TIPRA Motha, expressed gratitude towards the people for their unity stating that the government's decision to maintain the status quo is a victory for the next generation.
The government of Tripura clarified that Tiprasa students will continue to have the option to write exams in either the Roman script or the Nagla script, ensuring that no student feels pressured to conform to a singular script. This move has been hailed as a step towards linguistic inclusivity and recognition of cultural diversity within the state.
In response to the government's decision, the Tipra Indigenous Students Federation (TISF), the student wing of the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), announced plans to block key national highways and rail routes indefinitely. The blockade is seen as a form of continued pressure to ensure the protection of linguistic rights and fair examination practices for Tiprasa students.
While welcoming the state government's decision, Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma stressed the need for a permanent solution, emphasizing the importance of written assurances to safeguard the linguistic identity of the Tiprasa community.