War of Words Intensifies in Tripura: CM Manik Saha and Pradyot Debbarma Trade Sharp Attacks, Reveal Hidden Political Claims
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, March 17, 2026
A fresh political confrontation has erupted in Tripura as Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha and TIPRA Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarma engage in a series of sharp verbal exchanges, bringing several previously undisclosed political claims into the public domain.The latest escalation comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding the implementation of the Tiprasa Accord and recent protest strategies in tribal areas. According to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, a planned national highway blockade at Baramura Hills, now referred to as Hatai Kotor, was allegedly withdrawn following intervention initiated from Delhi.The Chief Minister claimed that the call from central leadership, which led to the withdrawal of the agitation, was made at his own initiative and in the interest of Pradyot Debbarma. He further alleged that the protest withdrawal was presented publicly as a strategic move linked to a Delhi visit, rather than the result of direct communication from central leaders.In a strong political remark delivered on Sunday, Dr. Saha accused Pradyot of shifting positions regarding leadership ambitions. He stated that Debbarma had earlier claimed he did not wish to become Chief Minister, later advocated for a tribal Chief Minister or a “Thansa” Chief Minister, and is now openly expressing his own desire for the post.According to Dr. Saha, “One’s true intentions cannot remain hidden forever. How long can people be misled in this way?”, a comment that has further intensified the political discourse.
On the other hand, Pradyot Debbarma, addressing a public gathering at Khumulwng, took an assertive stance, announcing that TIPRA Motha is prepared to contest all 28 seats in the upcoming elections. His speech also raised eyebrows as he openly praised former Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb and Tripura tourism minister Sushanta Chowdhury, even while maintaining a critical position against the ruling party’s broader approach.
The developments have triggered widespread political debate across the state, with questions being raised about political strategy, alliance dynamics, and public messaging. Observers note that the ongoing exchange between the BJP leadership and TIPRA Motha reflects deeper underlying tensions over governance, tribal rights, and electoral positioning.
As the situation unfolds, the political climate in Tripura appears to be heading toward a more confrontational phase, with both sides sharpening their narratives ahead of future electoral battles.
more news...