Agartala, Oct 27, 2024, By Our Correspondent
Former Chief Minister of Tripura and CPIM Politburo member Manik Sarkar has strongly criticized the BJP-led central and state governments for what he describes as a series of failures in addressing key public concerns in Tripura. Speaking on Sunday at a mid-term review meeting of the Tripura Rajya Matsyajibi (Fishermen) Union at Krishak Bhavan in Agartala, Sarkar voiced his concerns on several issues, including escalating unemployment, reduction in MGNREGA workdays, and the state’s inadequate response to recent catastrophic floods.
Sarkar argued that unemployment in Tripura is worsening, accusing the BJP government of opting for a contractual job system in sectors as crucial as defense, thereby diminishing job security. “The move towards contract-based employment, even in critical fields, severely limits job stability for citizens, exacerbating the employment crisis,” he said. According to Sarkar, this lack of job security affects thousands, with many young people in Tripura facing an uncertain future.
He also condemned the government’s decision to cut MGNREGA workdays, which has dealt a significant blow to rural communities dependent on the program for income. Sarkar noted that the reduction has disproportionately impacted Tripura’s impoverished communities, who rely on these workdays as a primary source of livelihood.
Sarkar further expressed his frustration at the government’s handling of the recent devastating floods in Tripura, a disaster he described as unprecedented. “In the last 40 years, Tripura has not seen floods of this magnitude. Around 17 to 18 lakh people have been affected, with extensive damage to agriculture, infrastructure, electricity, fisheries, and private properties,” he said. Sarkar accused the state administration of failing to push for adequate assistance from the central government, contrasting the lack of support to the rapid response Gujarat received during similar crises.
"The Prime Minister has shown complete indifference to Tripura. When Gujarat faced floods, special funds were quickly approved for his home state, while Tripura remains neglected. It’s as if our state is nearly invisible on the national map," Sarkar asserted.
Additionally, Sarkar raised concerns over a recent custodial death, which he linked to what he described as increasing police brutality under the BJP government. “Since the BJP came to power, incidents of police violence have surged, with around six to seven under-trial detainees dying in custody. Families have received no justice,” he stated. Sarkar added that since the 2023 assembly elections, Tripura has witnessed a rise in crimes against women, drug abuse, and theft, with victims often denied proper assistance by law enforcement.
Sarkar also touched on national politics, referencing Congress’s recent defeat in Haryana, which he suggested could be a wake-up call for the party. He noted that Rahul Gandhi appears more proactive in navigating the complexities of seat-sharing as India’s upcoming elections approach.
CPIM leaders Pilluvila Stanley and Sudhan Das also attended the meeting, underscoring the union’s commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of fishermen across Tripura. The session aimed to review current initiatives and strategize for future advancements, especially in light of the state’s ongoing economic and environmental challenges.