CM replies to will BJP go solo for TTAADC polls
Agartala Jan 30: In a move that underscores the complex “frenemy” dynamics of Tripura politics, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Friday asserted that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is preparing to contest all 28 seats of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), while clarifying that its political alliance with Tipra Motha is limited strictly to the state and Assembly level and has no bearing on the TTAADC.
Speaking to mediapersons after a strategy meeting with senior party leaders on the forthcoming TTAADC polls, Dr Saha said the BJP and Tipra Motha are not aligned in the ADC.
He added that any future understanding, if required, would be deliberated at a later stage, but for now the party is focused on consolidating its own strength in the council areas.
He also pointed out that since the last ADC elections, the BJP has been discharging the role of a responsible opposition in the council.
BJP’s Sole Poll Plank
Highlighting the BJP’s poll plank, Dr Saha said development would be the party’s sole focus in campaigns. He noted that the enthusiastic response witnessed during recent joining programmes across TTAADC areas indicated a growing public demand for change.
He further said that after years of governance by various local parties, people have begun to realise that the council needs leadership from a national party to ensure sustained development.
The Chief Minister also criticised opposition parties for allegedly distorting statements made by BJP leaders during their extensive campaign activities in ADC areas, adding that the election results would ultimately provide a clear verdict.
The meeting was attended by BJP Tripura Pradesh President Rajib Bhattacharjee, party General Secretary Bipin Debbarma and several other senior leaders. According to the Chief Minister, a range of organisational and electoral issues were discussed, including campaign strategy, outreach in rural and interior areas, and the division of responsibilities among party leaders to ensure effective execution of election programmes.