Manik Sarkar Alleges ‘Secret Understanding’ Helped BJP Retain Power in 2023, Calls for Massive Left Victory in Dharmanagar By-Poll

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, April 6, 2026

Former Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Sarkar, on Monday launched a sharp attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that the party could have been ousted from power in 2023 if not for what he described as a secret understanding with certain sections of Tipra Motha Party.

Addressing a massive election rally in Dharmanagar in support of the CPI(M) candidate Amitabha Datta for the upcoming by-election, Sarkar claimed that people across all sections of society were ready to remove the BJP from power in the 2023 Assembly elections. However, he alleged that a section of Tipra Motha leaders entered into a tacit understanding with the BJP, which ultimately helped the ruling party retain power.

Sarkar further stated that those who supported the BJP at that time are now realizing their mistake, as the state has witnessed what he termed as rising corruption, loot, and misgovernance under the current regime. He accused the BJP of failing to deliver on its promises of good governance and instead filling the state’s atmosphere with disorder and administrative failure.

Calling upon voters to deliver a strong political message, the veteran Left leader urged the electorate of Dharmanagar to ensure a decisive victory for the Left Front candidate. “This by-election is an opportunity for the people to correct past mistakes and send a clear signal against misrule,” he said.

The rally witnessed a massive turnout, with thousands of supporters marching through the streets of Dharmanagar carrying red flags, creating a striking visual display of Left Front mobilization. Sarkar described the enthusiastic participation as unprecedented and said it reflects a growing desire for change among the people of the constituency.

He concluded by appealing to voters to overwhelmingly elect CPI(M) candidate Amitabha Datta and strengthen the movement against the BJP-led government in Tripura.

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