The Tripura unit of the CPIM commemorated the 1988 Birchandra Manu massacre on Thursday. In the massacre, at least 13 left supporters were killed. The incident occurred during the Congress-TUJS coalition government. 

Condemning the brutal killing of the Red party supporters, CPIM leaders today tried drew parallel between the erstwhile coalition government in 1988 and incumbent BJP government in respect of ‘violence on opposition party activists ‘.

The CPIM leaders criticized the BJP-led coalition government in Tripura as ‘fascistic,’ like the former Congress-TUJS coalition government.

CPIM leaders and members gathered at their party office in Agartala to observe Sahid Daan Diwas and paid tributes to the victims of the Birchandra Manu massacre in South Tripura District, during which several party members lost their lives.

In today’s programme, among others, CPIM Politburo leader and ex-Chief Minister Manik Sarkar also paid tributes to the party workers and discussed the contemporary politics at the State and national levels.

Senior party leader Pabitra Kar stated, “Since taking power, the BJP-led coalition government in Tripura has exhibited similar tendencies as the Congress-TUJS coalition government did in 1988 when they instigated the massacre in Birchandra Manu. On this day, October 12, our party office was ruthlessly attacked, resulting in the tragic deaths of at least 13 people.”

He added, “This attack occurred as CPIM cadres were raising a red flag to symbolize the reopening of their local party office, which had been closed due to prior assaults by Congress supporters.”

“Since the 2018 assembly elections, the authoritarian BJP party has shown a desire to replicate the events of 1988, resulting in recurrent attacks on our party offices, members, and leaders,” he informed reporters.

The CPIM leaders alleged like the Congress-TUJS government regime, CPIM party Offices and it’s supporters came under attacks across the State during the incumbent government’s period.

The Leftists also held programme to mark the day at Birchandra Manu and other places today.