In a public demonstration against the privatization of electricity and railways, escalating prices, and rising unemployment, the Opposition Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPM organized a protest meeting in Teliamura on Saturday. The gathering, attended by concerned citizens, witnessed speeches from notable figures, including former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, CPI(M) Teliamura District Committee Secretary Hemanta Kumar Jamatia, and former MLA Manindra Chandra Das.
During his address, former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar expressed deep concern about the current state of the country and the region, stating that both are facing dire circumstances. He highlighted the alarming situation by mentioning instances of families resorting to extreme measures, such as selling their children due to hunger, citing a recent incident in Mungiakami as a stark reflection of this distressing reality.
Sarkar strongly criticized the ruling government, particularly emphasizing the alleged failures of the BJP administration in the last 69 months. According to him, the government has fallen short on fulfilling any of the promises outlined in its Vision Document. He pointed out that the implementation of MGNREGA work has come to a near standstill, with workers reportedly going unpaid for the past four months.
Further, Sarkar raised concerns about the healthcare sector in the state, asserting a shortage of essential medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and paramedical staff. He claimed that impoverished individuals are not receiving necessary medicines in hospitals, attributing the situation to the government’s negligence.
Sarkar accused government ministers of providing misleading information while comfortably situated in their offices. He argued that the administration has failed to address critical issues affecting the common people.
Turning his attention to the TIPRA Motha, Sarkar alleged betrayal on their part, suggesting that the Tripura Indigenous Peoples’ Front (TIPRA Motha) played a pivotal role in the BJP’s return to power in the 2023 elections. He accused the TIPRA Motha supremo of misleading tribal voters with promises of an independent state, ultimately diverting the tribal vote bank from the Left Front and aiding the BJP’s victory.
Concluding his speech, Sarkar urged the people of the state not to repeat the perceived mistake and instead rally behind an alternative coalition to vote out the BJP government in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The meeting served as a platform for opposition leaders to voice their grievances and mobilize public support against the policies and actions of the current administration.
