The Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR)- an organization which keeps tab on politicians and political activities as well as election process has named Tripura Chief Minister Prof Dr. Manik Saha, a maxillofacial surgeon with a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) degree, as one of the most educated chief ministers in the country.
The ADR which promotes transparency in politics, compiled the report based on affidavits submitted by chief ministers to the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Dr. Saha, who assumed office in May 2022, is among a select group of chief ministers with advanced academic qualifications. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant is also an Ayurveda doctor while Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma was an IPS officer with a brilliant service record especially as an ‘undercover’ who destroyed the Goa drugs cartel at a point of time. He was also in charge of PM’s security once.
On the other hand Dr Saha was not only a highly reputed Maxillofacial surgeon but also an eminent sportsman himself who participated in National and regional games of badminton and was a champion also.
The report also highlights that Dr. Saha has a spotless legal record, with no pending criminal cases against him—a rarity among chief ministers. In contrast, many state leaders face criminal cases, although the report notes that most are politically motivated.
India’s Wealthiest Chief Ministers
The ADR report sheds light on the financial status of chief ministers across the country. Andhra Pradesh’s Chandrababu Naidu, Karnataka’s Siddaramaiah, and Arunachal Pradesh’s Pema Khandu top the list of wealthiest chief ministers. Naidu leads with assets worth ₹931.83 crore and liabilities of ₹10 crore. Siddaramaiah follows with assets of ₹51.93 crore and liabilities of ₹23 crore, while Khandu reports assets of ₹332.56 crore and liabilities of ₹180.27 crore.
In contrast, Dr. Saha’s financial profile is modest. His total assets amount to ₹13.90 crore, most of which are inherited, while his liabilities stand at ₹13.27 lakh. Before entering politics, Dr. Saha was a respected medical professional and professor, a background that distinguishes him from some of his wealthier counterparts.
