Agartala, Tripura | March 26, 2025:
A major uproar rocked the Tripura Legislative Assembly after allegations surfaced against Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ratan Lal Nath, who was accused of making a racially insensitive remark directed at Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury.
The incident occurred during a heated discussion on the Assembly floor, where Chaudhury, a senior CPI-M leader and prominent voice for tribal rights, claimed that Nath had made derogatory comments targeting his community and ethnic identity. In response, Chaudhury immediately filed a privilege motion, urging the House to take disciplinary action against the minister for violating parliamentary decorum and disrespecting the dignity of a tribal representative.
However, the situation escalated further when the Speaker of the Assembly rejected the privilege motion, sparking outrage among opposition members. In protest, the CPI-M legislators staged a dramatic walkout, accusing the ruling party of intolerance, discrimination, and a lack of accountability within the House.
Speaking to the press outside the Assembly, Jitendra Chaudhury stated, “This isn’t just about a personal attack—it’s about the systemic disregard for tribal voices and the blatant normalization of casteist and communal rhetoric in the state’s political discourse. We will not stay silent.”
The CPI-M party has demanded a formal apology from Minister Nath and called for the Assembly to adopt a code of conduct that ensures respectful communication, especially concerning matters of race, ethnicity, and indigenous identity.
🗣️ Political Tensions Rise Ahead of 2025 Polls
The incident has further intensified political friction in Tripura, where tribal rights, representation, and regional autonomy remain deeply sensitive issues. With the 2025 local elections approaching, political analysts believe that the controversy could polarize voter sentiment and reshape party narratives, particularly in tribal-dominated constituencies.
So far, Minister Ratan Lal Nath has not issued a public clarification. The ruling party has remained silent on whether any internal review or disciplinary action will be taken.
The incident has sparked debates across media, civil society, and social platforms, with many urging political leaders to set an example of inclusive governance and respectful dialogue.
