August 10, 2018: Political scenario in Agartala was spiced up as Opposition parties hit streets against Modi-Govt and kept the administration on toes.
Nationwide Jail Bharo agitation was held by All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) against Modi-Government and in Tripura as well as in Agartala, Leftists came out and observed ‘Civil Disobedience’. The administration had a tough time in dealing with the agitators and had to burst tear gas and use water canons to disperse ‘strong’ crowd, source said.
- More than 5000 Left supporters arrested during Jail Bharo movement
- AIKS leader claimed 18 agitating supporters were injured
- AIKS leader claimed more than 10,000 activists joined the movement
The agitation was first major agitation held by the Leftists after Assembly poll drubbing. Despite reports of large scale erosion in Left support base, yesterday’s agitation ignited a ray of hope among leaders. Buoyed at ‘impressive’ participation, CPIM Politburo member and former CM Manik Sarkar delivered speech highlighting plight of common people, especially farmers and ‘failures’ of Modi Government in fulfilling pre-poll promises. Completely drenched after Police used water canons, Manik Sarkar and other leaders made a clarion call to defeat saffron party to safeguard interests of common people.
After, the yesterday’s show, the question is as to whether CPIM will be able to regain ground under its feet in Tripura particularly against meticulous poll-strategies of BJP.
Meanwhile, Tripura Pradesh Congress came out with a rally – named ‘Tiranga March’ to commemorate Kranti Diwas which also drew impressive crowd. Almost immediately after Poll setback in March last, Congress which had failed to open an account in Assembly, jumped on the street and holding demonstration against BJP. Although, the participation at the initial stage was poor, it gradually started improving. However, chances of regaining grounds by Congress are slim due to its alleged inner-party squabbles, Political Observers opined.
Political analysts argued, Although, Opposition parties in Tripura seem to be still in disarray, it will be wise for BJP leaders to take a note and assess emerging ground realities.
