The Trinamool Congress has appealed to left-backed trade unions to exempt Tripura from the upcoming Bharat Bandh scheduled for July 9, citing the significance of the ongoing Kharchi festival in the state.
The nationwide strike, called in support of a 17-point charter of demands by various left-aligned trade unions, coincides with the final day of Kharchi Puja — one of Tripura’s most important religious festivals. The bandh, if implemented, is expected to severely impact public transport and mobility on that day.
In a statement issued on Friday, Shantanu Saha, president of the Trinamool Youth Congress in Tripura, urged the union leaders to consider the sentiments of the people. “Kharchi Puja is not just a festival, it’s deeply rooted in the cultural and religious fabric of Tripura. If transport services are halted due to the bandh, many devotees may be unable to visit the Chaturdash Devata Mandir to offer prayers on the final day,” said Saha.
He further added that it would be unfortunate if the trade union leaders failed to recognize the unique circumstances in Tripura and insisted on enforcing the bandh without exception. “This is a time when political differences should be set aside to respect the religious and cultural practices of the people,” Saha emphasized.
The Kharchi festival, celebrated at the historic Chaturdash Devata Temple near Agartala, attracts thousands of devotees from across the state and neighbouring regions. The last day of the week-long festival traditionally sees a large gathering for special rituals and offerings.
While the Bharat Bandh is aimed at drawing attention to pressing national issues concerning labor rights, inflation, and privatization, Trinamool leaders in Tripura believe that enforcing it on a culturally sensitive day may alienate local sentiments.
As of now, the left trade unions have not issued a formal response to the appeal. All eyes remain on whether an exception will be made for Tripura ahead of July 9.
