AGARTALA, Nov 27: In a powerful display of regional unity, the newly formed platform ‘One Northeast’, spearheaded by Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma held its first mega rally in Tripura on Thursday, urging indigenous communities across the Northeast to join hands and speak with one collective voice.
The rally, held in Agartala, witnessed the participation of several prominent leaders from across the region, including Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Manikya Debbarma, former BJP leader Mmhonlumo Kikon, and Indian Gorkha Janshakti Front leader Ajoy Edwards. Their joint presence marked an uncommon moment of cross-party solidarity, signalling the seriousness of the platform’s mission.
Addressing reporters, Conrad Sangma clarified that the initiative is not directed against any political group but seeks to strengthen the region’s representation at the national level.
“It’s very simple—when we stand individually, our voices often remain suppressed. But when we come together, we become stronger,” he said. He added that One Northeast aims to unify concerns and aspirations across communities so that “no one feels alone.”
Sangma further emphasised that leaders from varied states, communities, and political backgrounds joining the platform sends “a strong message that the indigenous people of the Northeast are ready to work and fight together for the present and future generations.”
Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Manikya Debbarma, who also addressed the gathering, noted the challenges faced in organising the rally. He pointed out that several trains were cancelled and many supporters were prevented from travelling, yet the turnout remained encouraging.
“Many trains were cancelled this morning and several people were not allowed to come. But I am happy with the turnout,” he said. “We have all been saying the same things from different platforms. Now the time has come for the indigenous people of the Northeast to speak in one united voice—for our survival, existence and future.”
The rally marks a major public push for the One Northeast movement, which seeks to consolidate regional concerns on issues such as identity, land rights, and political representation. The organisers said this was only the first step in a broader campaign to bring together diverse indigenous groups under one shared regional framework.
