Veteran Tribal leader Nirajay Tripura passes away at 99

The state of Tripura mourns the loss of one of its most respected tribal leaders and senior CPI(M) politician, Nirajay Tripura, who passed away late Saturday night at the age of 99. He breathed his last at 11:26 PM after a prolonged battle with age-related ailments, closing a remarkable chapter in the state’s political and social history.

Born on July 12, 1928, in a village that now lies in Bangladesh, Nirajay Tripura migrated to Tripura with his family after Partition. Despite enduring severe economic hardship in his early years, he remained steadfast in his determination to uplift society and devoted his life to public service.

His political journey began in 1964, when he joined the Communist movement. Over the decades, he emerged as a prominent tribal leader, championing causes such as land rights, social justice, and the welfare of indigenous communities. He played a pivotal role in mobilizing grassroots movements during Tripura’s turbulent years of political and social transformation.

Nirajay Tripura was elected to the Tripura Legislative Assembly from Chawmanu constituency in 2008 and again in 2013. Known for his simplicity, honesty, and unwavering commitment to the people, he earned deep respect across party lines. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen democratic participation and improve the lives of marginalized communities.

The news of his demise has cast a shadow of grief across CPI(M) circles and among tribal communities who regarded him as a true representative of their struggles. CPI(M) State Secretary Jitendra Chaudhury described him as “a true son of the soil whose entire life was devoted to struggle and the welfare of ordinary people.”

As a mark of respect, CPI(M) announced that party flags would be flown at half-mast across all state offices on Sunday. Political leaders, social organizations, and well-wishers have also expressed condolences, remembering his lifelong dedication to the people of Tripura.

Nirajay Tripura’s passing marks the end of an era for Tripura’s Left politics. His legacy lies in his tireless advocacy for tribal rights, his role in strengthening grassroots democracy, and his ability to inspire generations of activists. For many, he embodied the values of simplicity, sacrifice, and service.