An Unusual Path to Peace: Former Gomati DM Tarit Kanti Chakma, IAS Takes Temporary Monkhood Amid Political Controversy

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, July 12, 2025

In a rare and deeply meaningful step, Tarit Kanti Chakma, former District Magistrate of Gomati district and a young IAS officer, has embraced temporary monkhood (pravrajya) for a ritual period, seeking inner peace and spiritual clarity. Inspired by Lord Buddha’s timeless message, “May all beings be happy”, Chakma has chosen a path of self-purification and reflection, away from the turbulence of recent political events.

His decision follows a political controversy involving the founder of TIPRA Motha, Pradyot Kishore Debbarman, who visited Udaipur at night a few months ago to meet Chakma without prior notice. Chakma, maintaining protocol and official decorum, declined the meeting due to the inappropriate timing. This incident sparked protests from TIPRA Motha, who demanded action against the officer.

Despite widespread public support for Chakma's principled stance, under intense political pressure, including threats from TIPRA Motha to withdraw support from the government, Chakma was removed from his post as District Magistrate of Gomati. Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha reportedly made sincere efforts to prevent the transfer, but was ultimately compelled to act amidst political compulsions and opposition Tipra Motha’s tactics.

For Tarit Kanti Chakma a well-educated, efficient, and ethical officer, the sudden removal was personally painful. Choosing not to engage in public dispute, he instead turned inward. By accepting temporary monkhood, Chakma has embarked on a journey of self-cleansing and spiritual discipline, sending a powerful message about dignity, restraint, and faith.

This is not a permanent renunciation of worldly life, but a ritual monastic period observed in accordance with his traditional beliefs, a cultural and spiritual practice observed among many in the Chakma and Buddhist communities.

Chakma’s decision is now being seen as both a personal healing process and a silent protest, not against individuals, but against a system where honesty and dedication sometimes get overrun by political pressure.

In times of noise and unrest, his quiet step toward introspection stands as a rare beacon of integrity and inspiration, not just for government officers, but for every citizen who believes in truth, faith, and personal conviction.

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