A political controversy has erupted in Kanchanpur subdivision of Tripura after former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar reportedly failed to secure accommodation at a government dak bungalow during a party programme. The incident has triggered strong reactions across political circles and raised concerns over administrative protocol and governance.
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Visit for CPI(M) Programme
According to party sources, Sarkar travelled to Kanchanpur to attend a meeting and public rally organised by the CPI(M) subdivision committee. The local administration had reportedly received prior intimation about the programme, including details of his participation and plans for an overnight stay.
Following established norms applicable to a former Chief Minister, the Sub-Divisional Administration arranged accommodation for him at the government dak bungalow under the authority of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate. Officials initially allotted the No. 1 VIP room for his stay on Friday night.
Change in Room Allotment
Sources indicated that the situation changed after information surfaced about a visit by Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma. Authorities reportedly altered the earlier arrangement and shifted Sarkar to another VIP room within the same premises.
Despite the change, Sarkar allegedly did not object and agreed to stay in the alternative room.
However, tension escalated shortly before his arrival when a large number of people gathered at the dak bungalow in connection with a ruling party programme. Party leaders claimed that Minister Bikash Debbarma, accompanied by BJP functionaries, entered the premises around that time, creating confusion over the accommodation arrangements.
Administration Requests Shift
As the crowd grew and the atmosphere became politically charged, the administration reportedly requested Sarkar to shift to another government guest house. Initially, he agreed to the proposal.
Later, when it was reported that the alternative accommodation had also been pre-booked, Sarkar declined the arrangement, citing prior confirmation and established protocol for former chief ministers.
With no suitable government accommodation available, Sarkar ultimately spent the night at a local CPI(M) party office, described by opposition leaders as dilapidated. They termed the episode humiliating and unprecedented in Tripura’s political history.
Administrative Challenges and Political Reactions
The incident reportedly placed local administrative and police officials in a difficult position. Sources suggested that overlapping political programmes and accommodation disputes created operational challenges for the authorities.
News of the episode quickly spread across the region, drawing sharp reactions from political observers and residents. Many described the development as embarrassing for the administration and reflective of heightened political tension in Kanchanpur.
Opposition leaders accused the authorities of failing to adhere to established norms and protocol. Meanwhile, no official statement clarified the circumstances behind the accommodation changes at the time of reporting.
Rally Proceeds as Planned
Despite the controversy, the CPI(M) rally proceeded as scheduled at the Samannay Bhavan ground in Kanchanpur. Party leaders claimed that the event witnessed significant public participation, with supporters organising marches and raising slogans.
The accommodation dispute has since become a flashpoint in Tripura politics, intensifying debate over administrative neutrality and political conduct in the state.
Observers note that the episode underscores the importance of clear communication, coordination, and adherence to established protocol, especially during high-profile political visits.
As reactions continue to unfold, the incident remains a subject of intense political discussion across Tripura, highlighting the fragile balance between governance and party politics in the state.