Former Union Minister Pratima Bhoumik’s claims of “ghosts” siphoning funds for ASHA mobile phones spark a political uproar in Tripura, drawing sharp criticism from Opposition Leader Jitendra Choudhury and raising questions over corruption and governance in the state.
A fresh political storm has erupted in Tripura after former Union Minister Pratima Bhoumik publicly raised concerns over alleged fund misappropriation in the procurement of mobile phones meant for ASHA and Anganwadi workers under the ICDS scheme. Her remarks, made during a conference organised by the Mazdoor Monitoring Cell, have sparked widespread debate—drawing sharp reactions from the Opposition and reigniting discussions on corruption within state governance.
Addressing a gathering of ASHA and Anganwadi workers, Bhoumik alleged that “ghosts” within the system were diverting funds allocated specifically for purchasing mobile phones meant to support frontline health and childcare workers. Without naming individuals or groups, she hinted at a nexus responsible for either supplying substandard gadgets or siphoning off the money intended for purchasing quality devices.
Bhoumik expressed concern that workers under centrally sponsored schemes were being forced to use low-quality mobile phones that hindered their ability to carry out field responsibilities. “If you are offered quality-compromised mobile phones, don’t accept them. I have heard from many sisters working under these schemes that their phones are not of good quality. The only real solution is a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) so that workers can choose and buy their own devices,” she told the audience.
Her comments were interpreted by many as an indirect criticism of officials or intermediaries involved in the procurement process. Political observers note that such strong words from a senior BJP leader—who earlier served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment—are unusual, especially as they target a scheme implemented at the state level by her own party’s government.
The controversy intensified when Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Choudhury reacted to Bhoumik’s statements on Tuesday. Describing her remarks as “a late realization,” Choudhury asserted that what Bhoumik had hinted at reflects the ongoing corruption deeply entrenched in various layers of Tripura’s administrative machinery.
“It could be a late realization, but what she said was true. In every sphere of governance, corrupt practices can be felt,” Choudhury said. He added that Bhoumik, having served in the Union government, should be well aware of how the scheme works and the standard procedures required to ensure transparency.
In a pointed remark, Choudhury also referred to Minister Sudhangshu Das’s recent admission regarding elected representatives allegedly accepting “source money” from contractors—a claim that has stirred debate over political integrity and financial ethics in the state. According to Choudhury, Bhoumik’s concerns validate the Opposition’s long-standing allegations that corruption remains widespread, despite official claims of transparent governance.
The CPI(M) leader further used the occasion to criticise the state government’s ongoing “Tourism Promo Fest,” arguing that entertainment events cannot mask the growing frustration among the youth. “No doubt, the acclaimed singers performing here are entertaining the people. But such events cannot mitigate the widespread hopelessness gripping our youngsters. The youth of Tripura are roaming without direction,” he remarked.
He added that instead of making “tall promises,” the Chief Minister must prioritize real issues concerning employment, governance, and the welfare of workers who form the backbone of community-level services.
The controversy over mobile phone procurement comes at a time when ASHA and Anganwadi workers have repeatedly voiced complaints about inadequate facilities, delayed payments, and lack of technological support. Many rely on mobile phones to record health surveys, update beneficiary data, and coordinate with supervisors—making device quality crucial to their efficiency.
Political analysts believe that the current face-off may widen internal rifts within the ruling party. Bhoumik’s comments, they say, may also reflect growing dissatisfaction among party workers and leaders regarding certain administrative practices.
However, government officials have not yet issued a formal response on the allegations. If the controversy escalates, it may prompt a fresh audit or internal review of the procurement process under the ICDS scheme.
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For now, both the ruling party and the Opposition appear poised to use the issue as political ammunition, with Bhoumik’s remarks serving as a catalyst for renewed debates on governance, transparency, and public accountability in Tripura.
