Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has accused a local civil society group of engaging in an armed movement disguised as a peaceful protest, stating that their true intentions are now clear to all. The Chief Minister made these remarks during a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) event in Mungiakami, Khowai district, where 6,400 voters officially joined the party.
CM Saha emphasized that the state government is committed to the development of tribal communities and will not compromise on this goal. He welcomed the new BJP members, stating, “Without the BJP, the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), the state, or the country will not progress in the right direction.”
Saha referenced recent incidents, alleging that members of Tipra Motha attacked BJP workers during a previous joining ceremony in Takarjala. He criticized the group for their violent actions and questioned the legitimacy of their so-called peaceful movement.
The Chief Minister also addressed reports of intimidation tactics being used in the lead-up to the Mungiakami event, stating that threats had been made against residents. He asserted that no one could prevent the BJP, a national party, from operating in any part of the country.
Saha highlighted the BJP’s efforts in Tripura, particularly in honoring Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur. He mentioned initiatives such as naming the airport after the Maharaja, erecting a statue in Kaman Chowmuhni, and declaring his birthday a public holiday. Saha claimed that under previous administrations, the royal family had not been respected, but the BJP had restored that reverence.
Further, the Chief Minister praised central government initiatives led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi that benefit tribal communities, such as increasing the honorarium for tribal leaders and appointing officers to oversee special welfare projects at the sub-district and district levels.
The joining event in Mungiakami was attended by BJP President and MP Rajib Bhattacharya, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikas Debbarma, BJP General Secretary Bipin Debbarma, former MP Rebati Tripura, District President Binay Debbarma, ADC member Bidyut Debbarma, and other party leaders.
