Former Tripura Chief Minister and senior CPI(M) leader Manik Sarkar on Sunday raised serious concerns over the socio-economic conditions of tribal communities in the Autonomous District Council (ADC) areas, stressing the need for stronger political unity to safeguard their welfare.

Speaking after visiting a blood donation camp organised during the DYFI Rajnagar Area Conference at the Students and Youth Bhavan in Agartala, Sarkar appreciated the enthusiastic participation of young volunteers. CPI(M) state secretary Jiten Chaudhury was also present at the event.

Interacting with the media, Sarkar expressed anxiety over what he described as a deteriorating political and social atmosphere in the state. He alleged that democratic processes have been weakened since 2018, claiming that people have been unable to exercise their voting rights freely.

Highlighting the living conditions in the ADC areas, Sarkar said unemployment, lack of income opportunities, and food insecurity have severely affected tribal families. He cited disturbing reports that, in extreme cases, families are being forced into selling their children, calling the situation a humanitarian crisis and a reflection of governance failure.

Referring to the functioning of the Autonomous District Council, Sarkar noted that ADC elections are constitutionally mandated every five years and urged the state government to ensure that the upcoming polls, due as the current council’s term ends in April, are conducted fairly and on time.

He also criticised the present ADC administration for failing to improve conditions in the hill areas, stating that basic livelihood issues remain unresolved. Sarkar said his party would focus on issues of constitutional rights, development, and social security in the forthcoming elections.

Concluding his remarks, the veteran leader asserted that sustained attention to tribal welfare, democratic rights, and inclusive development is essential for addressing the long-standing challenges faced by people living in the hill areas.