Tripura CPI(M) Walks Out of Assembly Over Minister’s Alleged Racial Remark

Tripura’s political landscape turned tense as CPI(M) legislators staged a dramatic walkout from the Assembly, protesting against an alleged racial remark made by Minister Ratan Lal Nath. The incident unfolded during a budget discussion, where Nath reportedly made a statement that CPI(M) leaders deemed offensive and provocative. The opposition did not hesitate to voice its discontent, calling the remark unacceptable and demanding an immediate retraction.

Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury led the walkout, expressing strong condemnation of Nath’s words. He accused the minister of fueling division and disrespecting communities with his statements. CPI(M) leaders insisted that such remarks had no place in a democratic debate and accused the ruling party of fostering an environment of insensitivity. As tensions rose, members of the opposition left the House in protest, asserting that they would not tolerate discriminatory rhetoric.

The controversy erupted after Nath made his statement while addressing a question related to governance. Opposition members immediately objected, raising their voices and urging Speaker Biswabandhu Sen to intervene. The Speaker attempted to restore order, but CPI(M) leaders refused to back down, arguing that allowing such remarks to go unchallenged would set a dangerous precedent.

Outside the Assembly, CPI(M) leaders gathered for an impromptu press briefing, where Chaudhury reiterated his party’s stance. He declared that Tripura’s political discourse must remain free of divisive rhetoric and demanded a formal apology from Nath. CPI(M) workers took to the streets in Agartala, raising slogans and condemning the government’s alleged disregard for social harmony.

The ruling BJP defended Nath, claiming that his words were misinterpreted. Party spokespersons argued that the opposition had exaggerated the issue for political mileage and insisted that Nath had no ill intent. They accused CPI(M) of disrupting Assembly proceedings for the sake of optics rather than engaging in constructive debate.

Despite BJP’s defense, CPI(M) leaders remained firm in their demand for accountability. They submitted a letter to the Speaker, urging immediate action against Nath. They also hinted at taking the issue beyond the Assembly, possibly escalating it to the Governor or seeking legal recourse if necessary.

The controversy has sparked wider political reactions, with other opposition parties weighing in. Congress leaders criticized the BJP’s handling of the situation, calling for a more responsible approach from government officials. Tribal leaders also expressed concern, stating that any remark perceived as racial could deepen existing tensions.

Political analysts believe that this incident could have lasting repercussions. With upcoming elections on the horizon, both CPI(M) and BJP are positioning themselves strategically, using the controversy to appeal to their respective voter bases. CPI(M) is highlighting the issue as proof of BJP’s insensitivity, while the ruling party is framing it as a manufactured controversy designed to disrupt governance.

The demand for Nath’s apology remains a central point of contention. CPI(M) leaders have vowed to continue their agitation until the minister takes responsibility for his words. BJP leaders, on the other hand, remain defiant, dismissing the accusations as baseless.

As the standoff continues, political observers predict that this issue will dominate discussions in the coming days. Whether Nath will be forced to issue a clarification or whether CPI(M) will escalate its protests further remains to be seen. The political atmosphere in Tripura remains charged, with both parties unwilling to back down.