A political controversy erupted in Tripura’s Bishalgarh after local BJP leaders demanded the replacement of a statue of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. They claimed the statue resembled communist ideologue Karl Marx more than the legendary Bengali poet. The issue surfaced shortly after Rabindra Jayanti celebrations across Tripura. BJP leaders accused CPI(M) supporters of distorting Tagore’s image and called for a properly designed statue. Meanwhile, old photographs showing BJP leaders garlanding the same statue in previous years also appeared online, adding a new dimension to the debate.
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Key Facts
- Location: Bishalgarh, Tripura
- Issue: BJP leaders demand replacement of Tagore statue
- Main Allegation: Statue resembles Karl Marx instead of Rabindranath Tagore
- Occasion: Rabindra Jayanti celebrations
- Political Parties Involved: BJP and CPI(M)
- Key Leader: BJP Mandal president Tapan Das
- Public Reaction: Debate intensified on social media after viral videos
Political Row Erupts Over Tagore Statue
A fresh political controversy has emerged in Bishalgarh area of Tripura over a statue of Rabindranath Tagore.
Local BJP leaders demanded that authorities replace the structure, claiming it does not accurately portray the Nobel laureate. Instead, they alleged that the statue resembles Karl Marx.
The controversy surfaced a day after Rabindra Jayanti celebrations took place across Tripura through cultural programmes and literary events.
BJP Leaders Raise Objections
BJP leaders alleged that the statue stands near a local CPI(M) office in Bishalgarh and accused the Left party of attempting “cultural subversion.”
Speaking to reporters, BJP Mandal president Tapan Das said the current statue fails to reflect the true image and dignity of Rabindranath Tagore.
He stated that Tagore remains a symbol of Bengali culture and national pride. Therefore, he demanded the installation of a properly designed statue.
“Rabindranath Tagore is our pride and his ideals continue to guide society. Since this statue does not properly portray him, it should be replaced,” Das said.
Viral Video Triggers Online Debate
The issue gained wider attention after a video circulated on social media during Rabindra Jayanti celebrations.
The video showed two youths cleaning the statue and offering floral tributes to Tagore. Soon after, social media users started debating the appearance and condition of the structure.
Many local residents also criticised the alleged lack of maintenance around the statue. Some questioned why authorities did not properly clean or decorate the site during the birth anniversary celebrations.
Old Photos Add Twist to Controversy
As the controversy intensified, several photographs and videos from previous years surfaced online.
The visuals reportedly showed BJP leaders themselves garlanding the same statue during earlier Rabindra Jayanti programmes.
As a result, political observers noted that the issue has now turned into a broader political debate between BJP and CPI(M) supporters in the region.
However, BJP leaders claimed they had raised concerns about the statue earlier as well.
Public Discussion Continues in Bishalgarh
The controversy has sparked mixed reactions among residents and social media users.
Some people supported the demand for a more accurate statue of Rabindranath Tagore. Others questioned why political parties raised objections only after several years.
Meanwhile, discussions over cultural representation and political symbolism continue in Bishalgarh and nearby areas.
Importance of Tripura in Northeast India
Tripura holds strong cultural and literary ties with Bengali heritage, and Rabindra Jayanti celebrations attract significant public participation every year. Therefore, controversies involving the image or representation of Rabindranath Tagore often generate widespread attention across the state and Northeast India.
Question and Answer Section
What happened in Bishalgarh?
BJP leaders demanded the replacement of a Rabindranath Tagore statue in Bishalgarh, Tripura.
Why did the controversy start?
Leaders alleged that the statue resembled Karl Marx more than Rabindranath Tagore.
Who raised the demand?
Local BJP leaders, including Mandal president Tapan Das, raised the demand.
What triggered online debate?
A viral video showing youths cleaning and garlanding the statue during Rabindra Jayanti triggered discussion on social media.
What added a new twist to the issue?
Old photographs surfaced online showing BJP leaders previously garlanding the same statue.