The Tripura government has decided to allow students to write the Kokborok language paper in both Bengali and Roman scripts in the upcoming class 10 and class 12 exams. This decision is a significant development in the state's political and social landscape, addressing a longstanding cultural issue that has sparked protests and strikes under previous administrations.
The decision was made after extensive consultations and culminates in the landmark allowance of the Roman script for the Kokborok language in examinations. Students will now have the option to write Kokborok language papers in both scripts during the exams, scheduled to begin on March 1.
This move has been welcomed by the state's indigenous communities, who have long advocated for the preservation of their culture and language. The Tipra Indigenous Students Federation (TISF), the students' wing of the main opposition party, had called an indefinite rail-road blockade to demand the use of the Roman script. Following the government's decision, the blockade was called off on Monday evening.
The official statement released by the government emphasized that the resolution of the crisis not only averted the immediate threat to public safety and economic stability but also represented a step forward in fulfilling the cultural and linguistic aspirations of the tribal communities in Tripura. It described the event as a pivotal moment in the state's history, demonstrating the significance of dialogue and responsive governance.