Agartala, March 5:
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha launched a blistering political attack on both the opposition and TIPRA Motha party, an ally within the ruling coalition, accusing it of corruption, violence and spreading communal sentiments to mislead people, while asserting that only the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stands for genuine development in the state.
Addressing a party joining programme on Thursday at Atharo Bhola Motor Stand area under the Bagama Mandal in Gomati district of Tripura, Saha alleged that certain political forces which claim to represent indigenous interests have failed to deliver any tangible progress and instead rely on creating confusion and spreading false propaganda among tribal communities.
Without naming anyone, he said such forces have adopted the same tactics once practiced by the Communist regime that ruled the state for 35 years.
The Chief Minister alleged that the previous Left-led government institutionalised violence and misgovernance to remain in power, even allowing militancy to flourish during its tenure.
“For decades Tripura suffered under a regime of fear, corruption and political intimidation. The people of the state have not forgotten that dark chapter,” he said.
Saha claimed that some political groups are now attempting to revive the same style of politics by spreading misinformation and communal narratives to divide society.
“By repeating lies again and again they believe people will accept them as truth. This Goebbels-style propaganda was earlier practised by the Communists and now others are trying to imitate it,” he said.
The Chief Minister warned that intimidation and violent tactics would not deter the BJP.
“Those who think they can frighten the BJP through threats or violence are mistaken. BJP is a disciplined organisation that works for the people from morning till night,” he asserted.
Emphasising that the BJP’s core ideology is development, Saha said the party does not indulge in divisive politics but works for inclusive growth of all communities.
“Our agenda is simple — development for everyone. Tribal communities, Bengalis, minorities and all sections of society must progress together,” he said.
He further claimed that the indigenous population is increasingly realising that real progress in tribal areas will be possible only under the leadership of the BJP. According to him, this growing trust is reflected in the steady influx of people from other political parties into the BJP.
During the programme, 192 members from 53 families reportedly joined the BJP in the presence of the Chief Minister, local MLA Rampada Jamatia and Industries Minister Santana Chakma.
Expressing confidence ahead of the upcoming elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) and Village Councils, Saha said the BJP is witnessing unprecedented support across tribal areas.
“The momentum has already begun. People have understood who works for development and who thrives on division and propaganda. The BJP will win all 28 seats in the ADC and form the administration there,” he declared.
Reiterating his attack on political opponents, the Chief Minister said the era of misleading people through emotional and communal slogans is coming to an end in Tripura.
“This is a democracy where people decide the future. Development, transparency and good governance will prevail over propaganda and divisive politics,” Saha said.
