Agartala, November 30: For the first time reacting to ongoing protests over the state government’s decision to lease Pushpabanta Palace to the Taj Group for developing a five-star hotel, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday urged agitators not to obstruct government initiatives aimed at fostering development.
Speaking to reporters at the inauguration of the 30th TRIPEDICON and Annual State Conference of Indian Academy of Pediatrics Tripura State Branch at the IMA House in Agartala, Saha defended the decision, asserting that the BJP-led government has always respected the state’s royal heritage and its historical legacy.
“Retrofitting work is underway at Pushpabanta Palace. Transforming it into a luxury hotel without destroying the structure will attract tourists globally, bringing greater recognition to the Manikya dynasty. This will be beneficial,” the Chief Minister stated.
Protests against the decision have largely come from tribal organizations affiliated with the Tipra Motha party. Addressing them, Saha reminded that the party’s leadership, under the terms of the TIPRA Agreement, has a responsibility to maintain a conducive atmosphere for its implementation and avoid resorting to agitation.
He also pointed to successful examples from Rajasthan, where royal palaces have been converted into luxury hotels, benefiting the state and its heritage. “Here, too, there should be no objections to a similar initiative,” he remarked.
The Pushpabanta Palace project has stirred significant debate in Tripura, with some viewing it as a step towards modern development, while others see it as a compromise of cultural and historical preservation. As the state government continues its efforts to balance these perspectives, Saha’s appeal seeks to quell tensions and pave the way for progress.
In the same address, Saha called on the interim government of Bangladesh to take immediate action to protect minority communities in the neighboring country.
Expressing concern over reports of violence against minorities, he said, “It is imperative to ensure the safety and dignity of all minority communities in Bangladesh and the incumbent government should ensure that.”
