Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said that his government is completely ready to hold any election in the state, including the pending Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) village committee polls. His statement came shortly after the Supreme Court rejected Tripura’s plea for more time to conduct the elections.
The top court’s decision increased pressure on the government to act quickly. The judges emphasised that democratic institutions should not remain inactive and urged the state to conduct polls without delay.
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Supreme Court Rejects Plea for More Time
A Supreme Court bench denied the Tripura government’s request to postpone the TTAADC village committee elections further. The court observed that the committees have remained without elected representatives since 2021, which violates democratic norms.
The state had argued that administrative challenges and incomplete electoral rolls caused delays. However, the bench disagreed, stating that such reasons cannot justify withholding elections for so long. The court directed the Tripura State Election Commission (SEC) to complete the poll process within a fixed period.
The TTAADC covers nearly two-thirds of Tripura’s area and focuses on the development and protection of indigenous communities. The prolonged delay had frustrated many residents who depend on these committees for local governance.
Tripura CM Saha Poll Readiness After Court Verdict
Chief Minister Saha responded quickly to the Supreme Court’s order. He said that his government respects the judgment and will cooperate fully with the State Election Commission to ensure timely elections.
“We are prepared for any kind of polls. The Supreme Court has given its order, and we will follow it. Our focus is on maintaining transparency and fairness in every election,” Saha told reporters in Agartala.
He added that his administration always prioritises strengthening democracy and empowering local bodies. According to him, timely elections are necessary for effective governance and better participation from citizens in decision-making.
Saha also said that his government has already started taking steps to support the SEC in finalising arrangements. “Our officials are coordinating with the Election Commission to make sure the process moves smoothly. We want people to feel confident in our electoral system,” he stated.
Political Reactions in Tripura
Opposition parties reacted strongly after the Supreme Court ruling. The Tipra Motha and the CPI(M) both welcomed the judgment, calling it a victory for democracy in Tripura’s tribal areas.
Tipra Motha leaders accused the BJP-led state government of intentionally delaying the elections to maintain control over the TTAADC. They said that the ruling reflects the demand of tribal people for immediate restoration of their democratic rights.
CPI(M) leaders also criticised the government’s earlier excuses. They said that the court’s order should serve as a reminder that democratic processes must continue without interference. Both parties urged the government to conduct fair and transparent elections as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, TTAADC members expressed their willingness to cooperate with the State Election Commission. They said that once the committees are re-elected, local development and welfare activities will gain fresh momentum.
State Election Commission’s Preparations
The Tripura State Election Commission has already begun preparations for the upcoming TTAADC village committee elections. Officials said that the revision of electoral rolls is nearly complete. They are now coordinating with district administrations to finalise polling arrangements.
The SEC aims to ensure transparency and peaceful conduct throughout the process. Security forces will be deployed in sensitive areas to prevent any disturbances.
An official from the Election Commission mentioned that the schedule could be announced soon. If preparations continue as planned, the elections might be completed before the end of this year.
These polls are expected to be politically significant. The BJP, Tipra Motha, and CPI(M) will compete for influence in Tripura’s tribal belts. Observers believe the results will indicate how the people view each party’s performance and policies ahead of future state elections.
Focus on Fair and Transparent Elections
Chief Minister Saha assured that his government remains committed to conducting free and fair elections. He said, “Democracy works best when people trust the system. Our government will ensure a peaceful environment and full cooperation with the Election Commission.”
He added that his administration has improved infrastructure, education, and healthcare in tribal areas. According to him, elected village committees will further strengthen these initiatives by improving coordination at the grassroots level.
Saha emphasised that his government believes in empowerment through democracy. “Development is effective only when people have the power to decide their priorities. Village committees help us reach every corner of society,” he noted.
The Chief Minister also urged all political parties to participate responsibly. He called for cooperation and respect among candidates to maintain peace during the election period.
Tripura Set to Restore Democratic Process
The Supreme Court’s decision has now cleared the path for restoring democratic governance in TTAADC’s villages. With the Chief Minister’s assurance of readiness, the State Election Commission’s ongoing preparations, and active participation from political parties, Tripura is expected to witness a significant step toward local empowerment.
Many citizens believe the elections will revive administrative efficiency in tribal regions. Local leaders said that elected committees will ensure quicker decision-making and better execution of government schemes.
As the state moves forward, Tripura CM Saha’s poll readiness message stands as a strong declaration of his government’s confidence and commitment to democracy. The next few months will reveal how efficiently the state translates this readiness into action and strengthens governance across its tribal heartland.
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