Agartala, December 4: Amid statewide protests opposing the Tripura government’s plan to hand over the historic Pushpabanta Palace to the private hotel group Taj, the Tipra Students’ Federation (TSF) on Wednesday met Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu to voice their concerns.
A five members delegation of the student body led by its president Samrat Debbarma and general secretary Hamalu Jamatia, submitted a memorandum urging the Governor to reconsider the decision and prioritize preserving the iconic palace as a museum, cultural research center, and library to honor Tripura’s heritage.
In their appeal, TSF emphasized that the palace, built in 1917 by Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya Debbarman Bahadur, holds immense sentimental, cultural and historical significance for the people of Tripura.
The structure, which served as the Governor’s House until 2018, had been designated for conversion into the Maharaja Birendra Kishore Manikya Museum and Cultural Centre. However, recently the state government suggest plans to transfer part of the property to Taj Group for a luxury hotel project, sparking public outcry.
“We wholeheartedly support the government’s vision for tourism development,” said Hamalu Jamatia, General Secretary of TSF. “However, this can be achieved without compromising our heritage. Pushpabanta Palace is not just a building; it is a testament to our shared history and identity.”
The TSF proposed alternative locations for the luxury hotel project, stating that development and heritage preservation could coexist. They urged the Governor to ensure the government reconsiders its stance and takes measures to protect the palace for future generations.
The protests reflect widespread public sentiment, with critics arguing that privatizing a significant historical monument undermines its cultural value.
As protests intensify, all eyes are now on the state government’s next steps regarding the fate of Pushpabanta Palace.
