Tripura CM Rejects Roman Script for Kokborok, Advocates for Indigenous Script Development

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has firmly rejected demands to introduce Roman script for the Kokborok language, saying such a move would undermine indigenous cultural traditions. Speaking in Agartala, Saha emphasized that Kokborok is the mother tongue of most indigenous communities in Tripura and is crucial for preserving their identity.

The Chief Minister noted that Kokborok is spoken by approximately 19 tribes in the state, representing nearly 14 lakh people. He called on tribal intellectuals and language experts to develop an appropriate script rather than adopting Roman characters.

Saha referenced the Chakma community's success in developing their own script as an example for Kokborok-speaking communities to follow. He stressed that the government has not insisted on adopting Bengali script either, but wants a consensus solution that will aid the language's growth.

The BJP-led government claims to have strengthened its presence among indigenous communities, pointing to electoral successes in the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, which covers about two-thirds of the state's geographical area.