Book Fair to Be Held at Hapania Again: Venue Controversy Peaks, Journalists Stage Walkout Alleging Forced Government Decision

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, November 13, 2025

Tension between the state government and the media fraternity has escalated sharply over the venue selection for Tripura’s 44th International Book Fair. The conflict reached its peak on Wednesday during a preparatory meeting at the Sukanta Academy Auditorium, prompting attending journalists to boycott the meeting and stage a walkout.

Journalists alleged that although the government had already finalized the venue in advance, they were invited to the meeting merely for a show of consultation, which they termed insulting and a blow to their professional dignity.

At the centre of the dispute lies the choice of venue. The government remains firm on hosting the fair at the Hapania International Fairground, just as in previous years. On the other hand, the media fraternity, Media Advisory Committee, major sections of booksellers, and publishers have long been advocating for a central location in Agartala, such as the Children’s Park, Umakanta Mini Stadium, or Astabal Ground. According to them, central venues attract more public footfall, boost sales, and offer far better accessibility compared to Hapania.

The controversy erupted immediately after the preparatory meeting began on 12 November. Chairperson of the preparation committee, PK Chakraborty, in his opening remarks, declared that the state government had already decided that the book fair would be held at the Hapania International Ground. Soon after, Minister Pranajit Singha Roy strongly endorsed the government’s stand. He made it clear that there would be no discussion on shifting the venue and that the fair would be held at Hapania, the government’s final decision.

This rigid stance triggered sharp resentment among journalists. Their main allegations centred on procedural flaws and disrespect. They questioned why stakeholders were invited at all if the government had already finalized every detail beforehand. They termed the meeting pointless a meaningless formality with no scope for genuine input. Journalists said it was not only a waste of time but also an outright disregard for their professional opinions.

They further pointed out that many booksellers and publishers also supported the idea of holding the fair at a central location. However, despite the collective preference of key stakeholders, the government allegedly ignored all alternative proposals, deepening the sense of frustration within the media and literary community.

The dispute has now sparked a wider debate about transparency, stakeholder consultation, and the government’s approach in organizing one of the state’s major cultural events.

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