TTAADC Clarifies Misconceptions on London Cultural Tour: No Misuse of Funds, Tour Was a Strategic Cultural Initiative

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 4, 2025

In response to recent media reports and social media claims regarding the London Cultural Tour undertaken by the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), the Council has issued an official clarification, firmly rejecting allegations of public fund misuse and luxury travel.

According to the TTAADC statement, certain individuals and Agartala based media outlets have attempted to portray the tour in a negative light, particularly in connection with the pending pension issues of retired TTAADC employees. The Council termed these allegations “misleading” and “politically motivated,” and has presented several key points to set the record straight:

Promoting Tiprasa Culture Internationally:

The London Cultural Tour was organized with the express purpose of showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Tiprasa community on an international platform. This historic visit marked the first ever cultural delegation from Tripura to participate in a global event of such stature. It was aimed at raising global awareness about the indigenous identity and traditions of Tripura's tribal population.

Not a Luxury Trip:

Refuting the claim that the tour was extravagant, TTAADC clarified that the journey was a strategic cultural mission, involving formal engagements, performances, and collaborative discussions. “Culture is not for sale, it is lived, shared, and honored,” the statement noted.

The TTAADC statement said that

Only designated officials of TTAADC and the cultural team were part of the delegation. No unauthorized individuals accompanied the tour. The officials also participated in an official capacity, signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with partner institutions in London to foster future collaboration in cultural exchange, youth engagement, and education.

The TTAADC statement also said that

Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma, who serves as an elected MDC joined the delegation at his own expense, the Council confirmed. Since 2021, he has not taken any salary, TA/DA, or allowance from the TTAADC, despite being entitled to them. His involvement was driven purely by dedication to cultural preservation and global recognition for the Tiprasa people.

On the matter of pending pensions, TTAADC stated that this is a legacy problem that the current administration is actively working to resolve. Linking it with the London tour is “factually incorrect and serves political agendas,” the statement said.

TTAADC concluded by emphasizing that the London Cultural Tour was a matter of pride for the Tiprasa community, a dignified and historic representation of their identity and aspirations on the global stage. “This was not a show of extravagance, but a symbol of unity, cultural diplomacy, and a vision for future empowerment,” the Council added.

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