Tripura Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury has responded strongly to allegations made by former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar regarding the Rs 7 crore spent on the Tripura Tourism Promo Fest. Chowdhury accused Sarkar of spreading misinformation and challenged him to provide any evidence supporting his claims of misuse of the funds. The statement came in the wake of Sarkar’s public remarks, which questioned the transparency and efficacy of the event’s spending.
The Tripura Tourism Promo Fest, organized by the state government, was a significant event aimed at boosting the state’s tourism sector and attracting visitors to Tripura. According to the current tourism minister, the festival was designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region, positioning Tripura as a prominent tourist destination. Chowdhury emphasized that the event was planned with utmost care and was part of the government’s broader strategy to revitalize the tourism industry.
In response to Sarkar’s accusations, Chowdhury rejected the claims and criticized the former Chief Minister for attempting to tarnish the image of the government without providing any substantiated evidence. He challenged Sarkar to come forward with proof of any financial discrepancies. “If there is any wrongdoing, let him present the evidence. Otherwise, these are just baseless allegations meant to mislead the public,” Chowdhury remarked.
The controversy surrounding the spending of Rs 7 crore on the Promo Fest became a hot topic of debate in the state. Sarkar, a prominent figure in Tripura’s political landscape, expressed concerns that such an expenditure might not have been effectively utilized, and he questioned the event’s impact on the state’s tourism development. He suggested that the funds could have been used more efficiently for other developmental projects in Tripura, particularly for the welfare of its residents.
Chowdhury, on the other hand, stood by the government’s decision to allocate the funds for the promotion of tourism. He explained that the Rs 7 crore was invested in various aspects of the fest, including organizing cultural performances, promoting Tripura’s unique attractions, and collaborating with travel agencies. The minister emphasized that such promotional events are critical to attract tourists, create jobs, and generate economic opportunities for local businesses. By bringing attention to Tripura’s diverse culture and scenic landscapes, the fest played a pivotal role in putting the state on the map as a tourist destination, he argued.
The tourism minister further pointed out that such events are a common practice in the tourism sector worldwide and are essential for improving the state’s global recognition. Chowdhury refuted the idea that the funds were misused, stating that the expenditure had been properly accounted for and used transparently. He added that the government would ensure that all future events would be organized in a manner that maximizes value and benefits for the people of Tripura.
The dispute between Chowdhury and Sarkar has sparked a larger conversation about the role of government spending in public events. Critics of the current administration have questioned whether such large-scale promotional events are the most effective way to drive tourism or if the funds should be redirected to other areas such as healthcare, infrastructure, and education. However, proponents argue that tourism plays a critical role in Tripura’s economic development, as it can generate significant revenue, create employment opportunities, and improve the state’s visibility.
As the debate continues, the Tourism Minister has urged the public to focus on the positive outcomes of the Promo Fest, which he believes has already started to yield results. He cited the increase in tourist arrivals and the growing interest in Tripura’s cultural festivals as evidence of the success of the event. Chowdhury concluded by expressing confidence that the state’s tourism sector would continue to thrive and urged all political leaders to support efforts to build Tripura’s economy.
