Former Tripura CM accuses Tipra Motha for crisis in ADC

Former Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar on Sunday launched a scathing attack on the Tipra Motha Party, which currently heads the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), accusing it of administrative failure, financial mismanagement, and neglect of public welfare.

Speaking at a remembrance meeting for late CPI(M) leader Badal Shil—allegedly murdered in the Belonia subdivision of South Tripura—Sarkar highlighted the dire situation in TTAADC-administered areas, citing a severe shortage of basic services and resources.

"There are no teachers in schools—how will the children succeed? Hospitals are suffering from a shortage of doctors, nurses, and health workers," Sarkar said. 

"Essential medicines are unavailable, and the conditions in village hospitals are deplorable. Patients are being denied admission due to the lack of funds to feed them. Even when referred to city hospitals, ambulances often have no fuel, forcing families to bear the cost."

He alleged that over 300 government employees retired last year from TTAADC without receiving any financial assistance or retirement benefits. “It’s been four years since Tipra Motha took over the council, yet nothing has improved. Now they claim there’s no money to support retired staff,” he added.

The CPI(M) veteran pointed out the irony of the crisis, noting that two Tipra Motha leaders serve as ministers in the state government. “Even with that representation, no concrete steps have been taken to secure funds for the district council. The area is facing both financial and food crises. People are in such desperation that reports are emerging of them selling their children to survive,” he claimed.

Sarkar also criticized the overall governance in the state, alleging a growing employment crisis and the erosion of democratic values.

“We are witnessing an anarchic situation across Tripura. Fascist forces are trying to dominate both the state and the TTAADC through fear, economic exploitation, and the destruction of democratic institutions,” he said.

Calling for public resistance, Sarkar urged citizens to rise in protest against what he termed a “regime of loot and terror.”

“This anti-people government believes it can retain power through electoral rigging, muscle power, and fear. It’s time for people to step out of their homes and resist,” he asserted.