Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha voiced strong criticism against former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, accusing him of spreading misinformation and misusing democratic principles to undermine the state’s progress. Speaking on Sunday, December 29, Saha addressed allegations made by Sarkar regarding the Tripura Tourism Promo Fest, emphasizing the lack of evidence behind the claims and the detrimental impact such accusations could have on the state’s development.
Saha stated that Sarkar’s remarks were not only baseless but also politically motivated, aimed at tarnishing the government’s image and discrediting initiatives designed to boost Tripura’s tourism sector. According to Saha, the Promo Fest was a carefully planned event aimed at showcasing the state’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, thereby attracting domestic and international tourists. He argued that Sarkar’s allegations of financial impropriety surrounding the festival reflected a deep misunderstanding of the state’s priorities and aspirations.
The Chief Minister expressed disappointment over what he described as an irresponsible use of democracy by the opposition. He highlighted the need for constructive criticism in a healthy democracy, urging Sarkar to substantiate his claims with evidence rather than resorting to baseless accusations. “Democracy is not a tool for spreading falsehoods. It’s a platform for debate, discussion, and development,” Saha asserted, adding that Sarkar’s approach was undermining the very principles of governance and public trust.
Saha pointed to the success of the Promo Fest as evidence of its impact, noting that it had drawn significant attention to Tripura’s tourism potential. The event featured cultural performances, local crafts, and gastronomic experiences, creating an immersive platform to highlight the state’s unique offerings. He credited the initiative with revitalizing interest in Tripura’s tourism sector, fostering economic opportunities for local artisans and businesses.
Refuting the claims of financial mismanagement, Saha explained that all expenditures for the Promo Fest were transparent and accounted for, with the state government ensuring adherence to strict guidelines. He accused Sarkar of attempting to politicize the matter without understanding the complexities involved in organizing such large-scale events. “The people of Tripura deserve progress, not politically charged distractions. Our focus is on building a state that stands as a beacon of development and unity,” Saha declared.
The Chief Minister also called attention to the broader achievements of his administration, emphasizing efforts to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education. He underscored that initiatives like the Promo Fest were part of a larger vision to position Tripura as a hub for cultural and economic growth. “Every initiative we take is rooted in the goal of uplifting Tripura and its people. These distractions will not deter us from our mission,” he added.
Saha’s remarks resonated with many, particularly those who have witnessed the positive changes in the state’s tourism and cultural sectors under his leadership. The Chief Minister urged citizens to remain vigilant against misinformation and to support efforts aimed at fostering unity and progress.
Observers have noted that the exchange between Saha and Sarkar reflects a larger political battle over the future direction of Tripura. While Saha’s administration emphasizes modernization and development, the opposition appears focused on highlighting potential flaws in execution. However, Saha’s confidence in the administration’s track record suggests a strong resolve to counter such challenges and continue driving the state forward.
By addressing these allegations head-on, Saha has not only reaffirmed his commitment to transparency but also highlighted the importance of constructive dialogue in a democracy. As the state moves ahead, the success of initiatives like the Promo Fest will likely serve as benchmarks for evaluating the effectiveness of governance.
The Chief Minister ended his address by calling for unity and collective effort in realizing Tripura’s potential. “This state belongs to all of us. Let’s work together to build a brighter future, rather than getting caught in the web of baseless allegations and political games,” he concluded.
