Tripura Faces Rising Illegal Occupation of Reserve Forest Land: MLA Ranjit Debbarma Flags Concern, Forest Minister Responds — Public Awaits Real Action

A long-standing issue in Tripura has once again come to the forefront as Tipra Motha MLA Ranjit Debbarma formally raised concerns over the illegal occupation of Government Reserve Forest land by both legal and illegal citizens, particularly illegal migrants from Bangladesh’s Chittagong Hill Tracts.

In a detailed letter dated 2nd July 2025, addressed to Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma, MLA Ranjit Debbarma listed specific villages across multiple subdivisions in Dhalai, Gomati, and South Tripura districts. These areas, according to him, are severely affected by illegal encroachments where government forest land has been taken over for constructing houses, rubber plantations, and fruit gardens, all without government permission.

MLA Debbarma stated:
"The citizens of Tripura are losing control over their own resources and heritage lands due to unchecked illegal occupation. It’s not only a matter of legality but also of identity and survival for the indigenous people of the state."

He praised the recent actions by the Forest Department in Bagafa Forest Range, where illegal rubber plantations were cleared and land recovered. However, he urged that such operations must continue at a larger scale in a mission mode across the state to regain public trust and demonstrate the government's impartial working.

In response, 8th July 2025 Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma officially replied:
"The matter raised by you is being taken up by the Forest Department with utmost seriousness. The Chief Conservator of Forest (Territorial) has already been entrusted to take all necessary initiatives as per the Indian Forest Act and TLR & IR Act, 1960."

While this reply acknowledges the issue, public sentiment in Tripura remains skeptical. Residents recall similar situations under Congress, CPIM, and even during the BJP-IPFT-Tipra Motha coalition government where central government notices and state-level discussions led to little or no visible ground action.

A local community leader in Sabroom commented:
"Every time, the same story repeats. The Centre sends reminders, leaders write letters, ministers reply, but actual work rarely happens. People of Tripura are tired of waiting. Is the state government serious, or is it just another big zero? Only time will answer."

The issue of illegal encroachments not only affects tribal lands but also disrupts ecological balance. Forest rights activists have warned that unless the matter is tackled with real commitment, both the demographic structure and environmental resources of Tripura may face long-term harm.

For now, the people of Tripura watch closely, waiting to see if this time will be any different from past experiences — or if once again, promises will be made but left unfulfilled.

By Choba Tripura