Roman Script Demand for Kokborok Language Emerges as Key Election Issue in Tripura

The 48th Kokborok Day celebrations in Agartala witnessed a significant political moment as student activists from the Twipra Students' Federation and Tribal Indigenous Students' Federation staged protests demanding official recognition of the Roman script for the Kokborok language.

The demonstration, which briefly disrupted the cultural programme, reflects a five-decade-old demand that has now become intertwined with electoral politics. Student leaders clarified they do not oppose the existing Bengali script status but seek equal recognition for the Roman script, describing it as a longstanding aspiration of the Kokborok-speaking community.

Chief Minister Manik Saha has rejected foreign scripts and called for developing an indigenous alternative, a position that has created visible friction within the ruling coalition, particularly with coalition partner TIPRA Motha. Former BJP leaders characterized the Roman script demand as a "foreign conspiracy," indicating sharp political divisions over the issue.

With TTAADC elections expected within two months, the Kokborok script debate has emerged as one of the most emotionally charged and potentially decisive electoral issues, highlighting how linguistic identity remains deeply connected to indigenous politics in Tripura.