By Poonam Sharma
The political developments within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Tripura over the past few years reveal a troubling gap between expectation and reality. When Biplab Kumar Deb stepped down as Chief Minister and Manik Saha took over, many believed the move would mark a turning point in governance and political functioning. However, on the ground, the transition has not resulted in any significant change. For citizens and party workers alike, the leadership shift appears more symbolic than substantive.
Despite the promise of stability and improved administration, the everyday experience of governance remains largely unchanged. Issues that existed during the previous regime continue to persist, raising questions about whether the BJP in Tripura is facing a deeper organisational malaise rather than a leadership problem alone.
The Perception of a Leadership Vacuum
Manik Saha’s elevation to the chief minister’s post has been met with mixed reactions. While he is seen as a non-confrontational and administratively acceptable figure, his lack of a strong political background or mass leadership experience has limited his ability to command authority within the party and beyond. His rise is widely perceived as a centrally-driven decision rather than the outcome of local political evolution.
This perception has contributed to a sense of uncertainty among party workers. In a state like Tripura, where the BJP had to fight decades of entrenched Left dominance, leadership credibility is deeply tied to grassroots struggle. Without that connection, leadership risks appearing detached and imposed.
Growing Discontent Among Party Workers
Interactions with local BJP leaders and grassroots workers reveal a quiet but noticeable dissatisfaction. Many cadres feel that the party’s organisational ethos—once built on sacrifice, persistence, and ideological commitment—is being overshadowed by top-down decision-making. This has created a morale issue, particularly among long-serving workers who feel their contributions are being overlooked.
The discontent is not necessarily personal towards the present Chief Minister, but structural in nature. Party workers question whether loyalty and hard work still translate into recognition and responsibility within the organisation.
Pratima Bhowmik: The Overlooked Architect
At the heart of this discontent lies the perceived marginalisation of Pratima Bhowmik. As one of the BJP’s oldest and most committed leaders in Tripura, she played a crucial role in expanding the party when it had little political presence in the state. Her journey is emblematic of the BJP’s rise from the margins to power.
For many within the party, her credentials were unquestionable. She had organisational experience, public acceptance, and ideological consistency—qualities that traditionally define leadership readiness. When Biplab Deb resigned, there was widespread expectation, both among party circles and in the media, that Pratima Bhowmik would be appointed Chief Minister.
Expectations, Media Buzz, and Missed Opportunity
The period following Biplab Deb’s resignation was marked by intense speculation. Media narratives and public discourse frequently highlighted Pratima Bhowmik as the most natural successor. Her appointment would have sent a strong message about rewarding grassroots leadership and acknowledging long-term dedication.
However, the eventual choice of Manik Saha came as a surprise to many. The decision was seen not just as an individual selection, but as a missed opportunity to strengthen internal democracy and reaffirm faith among party workers. For some, it reinforced the belief that central approval outweighs local legitimacy.
Centralisation Versus Local Leadership
The Tripura episode underscores a broader tension within the BJP’s organisational structure—the balance between centralised control and state-level autonomy. While central leadership has been instrumental in the BJP’s national success, excessive intervention can weaken state units by undermining local leadership ecosystems.
In Tripura, this centralisation has created a sense of political disconnect. Leaders with deep local roots appear sidelined, while administrative convenience seems to guide leadership choices. Over time, this approach risks eroding the party’s hard-earned grassroots base.
Gender, Representation, and Political Messaging
Pratima Bhowmik’s sidelining also raises questions about gender representation in meaningful leadership roles. While political rhetoric often highlights women’s empowerment, the absence of women in top executive positions sends a contradictory signal. For women leaders who have invested decades in party-building, this moment has been particularly disheartening.
Conclusion: Stability or Stagnation?
At present, the BJP in Tripura appears stable but uninspired. The change in leadership has avoided public turmoil, yet it has failed to energise the party or reassure its core supporters. If the BJP wishes to sustain its political gains in Tripura, it must reconnect with its grassroots, recognise long-standing contributions, and build leadership that reflects local aspirations.
Political authority cannot be manufactured overnight. Leaders like Pratima Bhowmik represent years of struggle that form the backbone of any successful political movement. Ignoring such foundations may ensure short-term calm, but in the long run, it risks weakening the party’s future in a politically sensitive and hard-won state.
