Agartala, May 29:
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday for the first time spoke on the recent controversy involving Tipra Motha chief Pradyot Kishore Debbarma and Gomati District Magistrate Tarit Kanti Chakma, stating that the matter was brought to his notice during his official visit to New Delhi for the Rising Northeast Investors Summit 2025.
Speaking to the media, Saha in the sidelines of the first convocation programme of the MBB University in the Rabindra Shatabarshiki Bhawan here he revealed that Debbarma had called him not to lodge a formal complaint but to inform him about the incident. “Pradyot called me while I was in Delhi and said he wanted to inform me about the matter with the DM. I assured him that after returning to Agartala, I would ask the Chief Secretary to look into it,” the Chief Minister said.
Upon returning, Saha said he contacted the Chief Secretary, who is in touch with DM Chakma, but is yet to officially brief him. “Before making any public statement, I want to understand the full facts to ensure that no one’s respect is compromised and everyone’s dignity is upheld,” he added.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that there may have been a communication gap and emphasized the importance of maintaining a cordial atmosphere between government functionaries and public representatives. “Such incidents are not desirable. If something inappropriate did happen, we will work to resolve it,” he said.
The issue sparked political controversy last week when reports emerged that DM Gomati refused to meet Pradyot and TTAADC Chief Executive Member Purna Chandra Jamatia during a visit to the DM’s official residence concerning public issues.
Pradyot, also the royal scion of Tripura, alleged that the young IAS officer had been avoiding his calls for over a month and had even blocked his number. The incident drew widespread condemnation from opposition parties, criticizing the DM for disrespecting an elected member.
The state government now awaits a formal report from the DM and Chief Secretary before taking further steps.
