Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha on Monday asserted that people in Tripura are increasingly aligning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) due to its development-focused governance. 

He emphasized that the party’s guiding principle is “nation first, party second, and individual last,” contrasting it with opposition parties, which he claimed prioritize personal or party interests over national welfare.

Addressing an election rally at Dasda Bazar in North Tripura in support of BJP candidate Shailendra Nath, the Chief Minister strongly criticized the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), stating that it should be “reduced to zero” in the upcoming Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections. He further alleged that TMP and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) share similar political ideologies.

Dr. Saha highlighted the growth of the BJP since its formation in 1980 under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He noted that the party, which once had only two Members of Parliament, has now emerged as a dominant political force, leading the NDA government for three consecutive terms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Calling the 2026 ADC elections historic, he said the BJP is contesting 28 seats for the first time and is confident of achieving a significant victory. He stressed that the party prioritizes national and state development above all else.

Criticizing previous governments, particularly the CPI(M), Dr. Saha alleged that years of political mismanagement and corruption hindered progress in the ADC areas. He claimed that the political landscape has changed significantly, with former dominant parties losing ground.

The Chief Minister also urged voters to support BJP candidate Shailendra Nath, describing him as a capable and sincere leader. He mentioned that Nath has been actively raising issues concerning displaced Bengalis in Kanchanpur and that the matter has been taken up with Union Home Minister Amit Shah for a long-term resolution.

Referring to recent incidents, Dr. Saha alleged that BJP leaders and candidates have faced attacks following the announcement of contesting all 28 seats. He claimed that similar patterns of political violence are seen in West Bengal.

The rally was attended by MLA Jadab Lal Nath, North District BJP President Kajal Kumar Das, candidate Shailendra Nath, and other party leaders.