"Demand for Roman Script for Kokborok Language: Uniting Voices in Tripura"

In recent news, Tripura witnessed a powerful display of unity and determination as over 260 individuals were detained during a 12-hour statewide strike initiated by the Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF). The core demand of the protest was the adoption of the Roman script for Kokborok, the indigenous lingua franca of the state, along with other important calls for recognition. This article delves into the significance of this movement and its implications for the linguistic and cultural identity of Tripura.

The protests, which gained momentum across various regions of Tripura, were marked by road blockades, slogans, and gatherings of concerned citizens. From the North Gate in Agartala to areas like Hatai Kotor, Champaknagar, and Manu, the call for change echoed throughout the state. The support garnered by the Twipra Students’ Federation wasn't limited to its members alone; the Roman Script for Kokborok Choba (RSKC), an alliance comprising 56 tribal cultural and social organizations, lent their weight to the cause.

The need for adopting the Roman script for Kokborok has roots in a longstanding debate. Kokborok, recognized as an official state language in 1979, is spoken by nearly 30% of Tripura’s population, primarily comprising its 19 tribal communities. However, the question of which script should represent the language has remained unresolved. The matter was addressed by two commissions under former legislator Shyama Charan Tripura and linguist Pabitra Sarkar. While the erstwhile government favored the Bengali script, the RSKC claims that the majority of indigenous people prefer the Roman script.

The recent strike, organized by TSF and supported by RSKC, serves as an urgent plea to the government for the adoption of the Roman script for Kokborok. It underlines the sentiment of the people who feel that their linguistic identity is intertwined with their cultural heritage and is essential for the preservation of their heritage. A major concern is the potential disruption that the imposition of a new script could bring to the speakers of the language.

Reflecting on this matter, TSF leader Hamalu Jamatia said, “Choosing the script for our language is our right. When a CM who can't speak Kokborok tends to decide the script, how is that fair in any sense? While 99% of Kokborok speaking people want the Roman script."

While the strike received massive support, it also led to discussions around the broader issues of linguistic and cultural preservation, identity, and representation. The protest served as a platform for the citizens of Tripura to express their aspirations and concerns.

In conclusion, the recent strike in Tripura for the adoption of the Roman script for Kokborok highlights the significance of language as a cultural anchor and the unity that can arise from a shared linguistic identity. The voices of the protesters underscore the importance of respecting the wishes of the indigenous communities and preserving their heritage. The outcome of this movement will likely have far-reaching implications not only for Tripura's linguistic landscape but also for its broader cultural fabric.