Agartala, October 09: Animesh Debbarma, the opposition leader in Tripura, has strongly criticized the state’s ruling BJP-Indigenous Peoples Front of Tripura (IPFT) government on multiple issues, ranging from the surge in drug cases to power tariff hikes, random property tax notices, and alleged extortion related to Durga Puja subscriptions.

Debbarma raised concerns about the government’s approach to addressing these issues during a press conference held in his office at the state assembly building.

Addressing the issue of rising drug addiction, Debbarma expressed alarm at the increasing prevalence of addiction and its consequences on the state’s youth.

He pointed out the proliferation of drug peddlers and a surge in AIDS cases across the state as he accused that the state Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha is aware regarding the drug kingpins who either have association with a section of the police of political leaders and so are moving scot-free.

Debbarma questioned the government’s strategy for tackling drug-related issues, highlighting the scarcity of state-run drug de-addiction centers and the lack of transparency in their operations.

He emphasized the urgent need for stronger measures to combat this crisis to prevent the loss of an entire generation.

Debbarma also criticized the government’s “nasha-mukt abhiyan” (addiction-free campaign), stating that it lacks proper oversight committees involving elected public representatives.
He stressed the importance of involving local MLAs and representatives from all political parties in the fight against addiction and called for the establishment of drug rehabilitation centers in every assembly constituency.

Regarding the recent 7 percent power tariff hike announced by the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), Debbarma highlighted the ongoing issues of load shedding and a shortage of vehicles in power department offices, which have resulted in a decline in service quality for consumers.

He questioned the rationale behind the tariff hike, especially in light of unresolved power cuts and other problems, contrasting the situation with states like Delhi and Punjab where free power supply is provided.

Debbarma also criticized the Agartala Municipal Corporation’s eviction of street hawkers ahead of the Durga Puja season, expressing concern for the livelihoods of those affected.

He raised questions about the arbitrary distribution of property tax notices in the Agartala municipality and called the process unscientific.

Responding to former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar’s comment that the BJP won the 2023 general assembly election due to vote division by TIPRA Motha, Debbarma defended his party’s actions, stating that the triangular contest in the polls led to gains for all parties involved.

He criticized Sarkar’s remarks as lacking the maturity expected from a seasoned leader who had governed the state for 20 years.

Read: Initiatives taken to elevate Neermahal as global tourism spot : Tripura CM

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