Factional tensions within the Tripura BJP—simmering since the last Assembly elections—have once again spilled into the open, this time in the Kamalasagar Assembly constituency.

The latest flashpoint emerged during the inauguration of a football tournament at Matinagar, where a public confrontation took place between Kamalasagar MLA Antara Deb Sarkar and TIDC Chairman Nabadal Banik, a rising youth face within the party.

According to eyewitnesses, the MLA became visibly upset after discovering that her photo was missing from the promotional banners for the event. In contrast, the banners prominently featured the Chief Minister, the Sports Minister, the state BJP president, and Nabadal Banik.

In an unexpected turn of events, the MLA arrived at the venue and took the microphone on stage. She openly questioned the organizers, demanding to know:

“Who is Nabadal Banik here? I want all the guests to come on the stage. Why is the Sepahijala Sabhadhipati leaving? Are you leading everything today? You people have organised a match—where is the photo of the MLA? Is the MLA dead here?”

A video of the confrontation quickly went viral on social media, causing embarrassment for the ruling party and reigniting discussions about internal discord.

However, the roots of the dispute go deeper. After the BJP nominated Antara Deb Sarkar to contest the Kamalasagar seat—considered a CPI(M) stronghold at the time—the local unit reportedly showed signs of resistance. Despite this, she secured a strong victory in 2023 and gradually consolidated her support base.

Meanwhile, youth leader Nabadal Banik expanded his political activities across Kamalasagar, backed by former Mandal president Subir Chowdhury. His increasing influence and frequent involvement in community and organizational events are believed to have caused friction, with the MLA reportedly feeling sidelined.

The rivalry was visible last year as well, when Banik organized a football tournament in Matinagar and the MLA responded by hosting a separate event in Madhupur.

Sunday’s incident appears to be the latest chapter in this ongoing power struggle within the constituency’s BJP leadership.