Agartala , Mar 21, 2025, TRIPURATIMES Desk

Agartala March 21: Advocating for the longstanding demand of ‘Roman Script for Kokborok language’, indigenous student bodies initiated an indefinite strike on Friday complying to the call of Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF).

The strike, marked by road blockades and burning tyres along with sloganeering, unfolded across various parts of the state, including the Circuit House area of the state capital.

The demands put forth by the protesters include; immediate implementation of Roman script for Kokborok in all educational institutions, recognition of Roman script as the official writing system for Kokborok in government documents, rescheduling of the Kokborok paper for Class 10 and Class 12 Board exams (CBSE and others) until the script issue is resolved and an end to any policies that force the Bengali script on Kokborok learners against their will.

Speaking to the reporters from the spot of protest in Circuit House Agartala, one of the TSF leaders said, “For years, the indigenous Kokborok-speaking community has been demanding Roman script due to its accessibility, ease in learning and cultural relevance. It is our language and therefore our ease and comfort should be prioritized”.

“However, the government’s continued imposition of the Bengali script has created academic hardships for the students. Even the situation worsened to such an extent that Kokborok exams are being conducted in a script that many students struggle with, that is impacting their performance and future prospects”, he added.

Highlighting the importance of collective action in securing justice for Kokborok-speaking students and preserving the language's integrity, the agitators demanded the stare government to comply with the demands at the earliest.

The TSF leaders agreed for open discussions but warned of continuing the protests until the demands are met.