No Permission for Night Club in Agartala, Investigation Underway: Tripura Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, September 11, 2025
Amidst the ongoing controversy over the restaurant cum bar beside Rabindra Centenary Bhavan in Agartala, Tripura Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy yesterday clarified that the state government has not granted permission for setting up any night club or dance bar in the capital.
He said that Our government is not indifferent to the sentiments of the people. On the Chief Minister’s instruction, an investigation is underway, and at the appropriate time, detailed information will be shared by the state government, the finance minister told media persons when asked about the matter.
He further explained that in 2021, the Urban Development Department had rented out the Rose Valley-owned building to Goutam Debnath of Oval Private Engineering Company. Later, the District Magistrate allowed them to run a restaurant cum bar on the premises. However, after questions were raised regarding the propriety of running such a facility adjacent to important cultural landmarks like Rabindra Bhavan, Sukanta Academy, and the Children’s Park, the Chief Minister ordered an inquiry.
The finance minister assured that if the investigation proves violation of the agreement or guidelines, the state government will take strict action as per law.
Public opinion has played a significant role in this controversy. The establishment, named Happiest Hours, is now claiming it is not a night club. However, before its inauguration, the organizers themselves had promoted it on social media as a “night club” or “pub.” Several videos still circulating online from the inauguration day show late-night celebrations with music, dance, and liquor, which directly contradict their current claims.
Cultural activists and local residents have strongly objected to opening such a club near cultural institutions, emphasizing that the location should remain reserved for artistic and social events. Adding to public anger is the fact that Rose Valley, the original owner of the building, was involved in massive financial scams. Multiple court orders have directed that Rose Valley properties be sold to compensate cheated investors, but the state government has not executed those directives, fueling further discontent.
Minister Pranajit Singha Roy indicated that the West District Magistrate is conducting the probe, and once the report is submitted, the government will take appropriate steps. He reiterated that the BJP-led state government would never implement any decision that hurts public sentiments.
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