Agartala: Nov 29: In a press conference held today at the Secretariat, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury addressed the ongoing debate surrounding the proposed five-star hotel project at the old royal palace. Responding to allegations made by former TIPRA Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarma, Chowdhury clarified that the state government has not yet made any decision regarding the construction of a five-star hotel at the Ujjayanta Palace. He explained that the matter is still under discussion, and no final decision has been reached.
Chowdhury emphasized that the government of Tripura is sensitive to the sentiments of the people and does not intend to hurt anyone’s feelings. He pointed out that the Pushpabanta Palace, which was once owned by the royal family, is now a property of the Tripura government. “Pushpabanta Palace is not anyone’s personal property,” he stated. He also remarked, somewhat sarcastically, that weddings and business activities are currently being held in other royal-era properties in the state, highlighting the ongoing use of these historical sites for modern purposes.
The Minister further asserted that, as the palace is now government property, the government is not required to seek anyone’s permission or approval to undertake projects there. He reinforced that the government’s priority is the development of Tripura and that any projects aimed at progress should not be obstructed. Chowdhury appealed to the people to support the government’s efforts for the betterment of the state, urging them not to hinder development plans that could contribute to the region’s growth.
