A Damaging Divide: How Excessive Politicization Has Weakened Tripura’s Social Fabric

On the 117th birth anniversary of Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Bahadur, a figure revered as the architect of ‘Modern Tripura,’ a special poster cover release and a photography exhibition were held to honor his enduring legacy. This significant event, organized by the INTACH Tripura Chapter, brought together distinguished personalities to reflect on the Maharaja’s contributions. However, amid the tributes, a sobering message was delivered by royal scion Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma. In his address, he lamented a growing crisis that has been steadily weakening Tripura’s social fabric—excessive politicization.

Pradyot’s remarks underscored a deep concern for the state’s future, suggesting that the very harmony and unity Maharaja Bir Bikram worked to build are now under threat. He drew a sharp contrast between the current state of affairs and the vibrant communal cohesion seen in other North-Eastern states, where communities come together in harmony during festivals. He stated that in Tripura, such unity is becoming increasingly rare, with political lines often overshadowing shared cultural identity. This sentiment highlighted a critical issue: the fragmentation of Tripura’s social fabric is not merely an abstract concept but a tangible problem affecting daily life and community relations.

The Problem of Mindset and Its Impact on Tripura’s Social Fabric

According to Pradyot, the solution to the state’s problems does not lie in political maneuvering but in a fundamental change of mindset among its people. He called for an introspection, urging citizens to rise above petty political divides and prioritize the collective well-being of the state. He stressed that a political solution alone cannot fix the deep-seated issues that have taken root. This assertion suggests that the erosion of Tripura’s social fabric is a complex issue that requires a human-centric, rather than a political, approach. The challenge, as he sees it, is not about which party holds power but about restoring the sense of community and mutual respect that once defined the state.

The Maharaja’s own life serves as a powerful testament to the vision of a united Tripura. His achievements were not confined to one community but aimed at the betterment of all. He was a pioneer who gifted Tripura a written constitution even before India had its own. He honored the legendary Rabindranath Tagore, provided crucial relief during the devastating Bengal famine, and established key institutions like the Buddha Mandir and Maharaja Bir Bikram College. These historical facts are a reminder of a time when leadership was about building, not dividing. The continued weakening of Tripura’s social fabric stands in stark opposition to the inclusive vision of its past leaders.

The Visionary Leadership of Maharaja Bir Bikram

Another speaker at the event, Pragya Debbarma, provided historical context and further insight into the Maharaja’s visionary leadership. She recalled the difficulties faced in celebrating his birthday in 2008, a reflection of the politicized climate that has long existed in the state. Pragya Debbarma also clarified a common misconception, stating that Bir Bikram was not the last ruler of Tripura. She pointed out that he was a forward-thinking leader who, inspired by the plight of Native Americans, had the foresight to reserve lands for the Indigenous people of Tripura. This was a progressive and compassionate step that aimed to protect the native population and ensure a stable and harmonious future for the state. This act was a deliberate effort to strengthen, not weaken, the very foundations of Tripura’s social fabric.

The contrast between the Maharaja’s constructive and unifying actions and the present-day political climate is stark. The event served as a poignant reminder that a strong social fabric is not something to be taken for granted. It requires constant nurturing and a collective commitment to unity. The message from the royal scion and other attendees was clear: preserving Tripura’s social fabric is a shared responsibility that transcends political affiliations. It demands a return to the values of mutual respect, community, and forward-thinking leadership that were exemplified by Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Bahadur. The path forward for Tripura, they suggest, lies in looking back at its history to find the strength to forge a more unified future. The politicization, which is damaging the state’s very soul, must be set aside in favor of a new era of cooperation and understanding.