Tripura, Dec 20: Tipra Motha chief and royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya on Wednesday wrote a letter to West Tripura District Magistrate seeking immediate intervention to stop the ongoing construction of a public washroom/septic tank/water tank (under the Agartala Smart City Project) at the pious spot within the premises of the Ujjayanta Palace compound.
“I express grave concerns regarding the ongoing construction of a public washroom/septic tank/water tank (under the Smart City Project) within the premises of the Ujjayanta Palace compound in Agartala. The said public washroom/septic tank/water tank is being constructed just adjacent (a few inches next) to the exact spot where our indigenous customary pujas, notably the Kharchi and Kher Puja, are celebrated and worshipped. I am deeply hurt and anguished at this sheer negligence of the administration. This action not only undermines the sanctity of the sacred site but also disrespects the cultural legacy that has been preserved for generations,” Pradyot Bikram Manikya stated in his letter.
He further stated, “It is crucial to emphasize that, as per the merger agreement, the responsibility falls on the District Magistrate’s office to facilitate and arrange all customary traditional pujas like Kharchi and Kher Puja held at the palace compound. The construction of a public washroom/septic tank/water tank at such a sacred site not only disrupts the sanctity of these rituals but also displays a lack of sensitivity and understanding of the cultural heritage we strive to protect.”
He said despite the concerns raised and fervent demands from several individuals to halt the construction work, it has come to his attention that no action has been taken thus far.
He also raised concerns over the current socio-political climate in the state where certain self-proclaimed protectors of the indigenous communities advocate the demand to exclude the Christians from the ST category, citing the need to safeguard the tribal traditions and customs, and are apparently given permission to hold a rally on the 25th of December (Christmas) by the administration, calling such actions ‘beyond comprehension’.
“I urge you, in the strongest possible terms, to intervene immediately and ensure the cessation of construction activities in this area without any further delay. Preserving our tribal customs, traditions, and sacred sites is paramount, and it is incumbent upon us to protect and honour these cultural legacies. I trust that you will take swift and decisive action to address this matter and prevent any further disruption to our revered cultural practices,” he stated.
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