The opposition party in Tripura, CPIM, announced that its 24th state conference would commence on January 29. After facing hurdles in securing open-air venues across Tripura, the party has opted to hold the event at Agartala Town Hall over three days, from January 29 to 31. Senior Politburo members are set to attend the conference.
Venue struggles lead to adjustments
Speaking at a press conference held at the CPIM Melarmath party office in Agartala on Thursday, Jitendra Choudhury, the Leader of the Opposition and state secretary of the party, shed light on the venue challenges. Initially, the party had sought permission to use the Swami Vivekananda Ground for its open session. However, the Urban Department declined the request, citing a scheduled Self-Help Group (SHG) fair.
“We then approached Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha for assistance, but our plea was not granted,” Choudhury said. “Subsequently, we requested permission to hold the event in front of Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhawan, a space traditionally utilized by various parties. Unfortunately, this too was rejected, with the authorities citing potential traffic disruptions.”
The CPIM State leaders then proposed an alternative venue near Umakanta Academy for its January 29 mass gathering. “We are currently in discussions with the Chief Minister to finalize this location,” Choudhury added, emphasizing the party's determination to ensure the event proceeds smoothly.
Senior leaders to attend and key issues to be highlighted
The conference will see the participation of prominent CPIM leaders, including senior politburo members Prakash Karat, Brinda Karat, and Ashok Dhawale. Former Chief Minister of Tripura and politburo member Manik Sarkar will also be in attendance.
A mass gathering, a hallmark of the party's state conferences, is slated to kick off the event on January 29.
The agenda for the conference includes a thorough review of the party's activities over the past three years, particularly in light of the political and social challenges faced in Tripura.
Discussions will also focus on the rising incidents of attacks against opposition parties in the state and the pressing issues confronting its citizens.
Revamping leadership with youth inclusion
In a bid to rejuvenate the party's leadership, Choudhury highlighted the integration of younger and dynamic leaders at various organizational levels. “Elections for local, sub-divisional, and district committee secretaries have predominantly favored younger candidates this year,” he said, emphasizing the CPIM’s commitment to adapt to modern challenges with fresh perspectives.
Delegation to attend National Congress in Tamil Nadu
Following the conclusion of the state conference, a 48-member delegation from the CPIM Tripura unit will travel to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, to participate in the party's 24th Congress. Scheduled from April 2 to 6, the Congress will bring together party representatives from across the country to deliberate on national strategies and policies.
A crucial event amid emerging political scenario
The 24th state conference is set to be a significant moment for the CPIM as it navigates political challenges in Tripura. The Party has considerably lost its grip over the tribal population which provided rock solid support for many years.
The situation has now drastically changed and Leftists have negligible presence in the Hill Tripura at present. Reviving party's support base is the biggest challenge. Despite the challenges, the party’s leadership expressed optimism and expecting to strengthen its organizational base in the State. In the face of the obstacles in organizing the event, the CPIM remains steadfast in its efforts to rally its members and supporters for the upcoming political battles.
(Tripura, Northeast)