CPIM Tripura State Secretary Jitendra Choudhury criticised the BJP-led Tripura government over its handling of ex-militant group demands and opposed the Supreme Court’s TET rule for non-TET teachers. He also raised concerns over tribal welfare, salaries, administration, healthcare investigation and infrastructure issues.
Quick Glance
- Jitendra Choudhury alleged government policies encouraged repeated protests and blockades linked to NLFT and ATTF demands.
- CPIM leader opposed mandatory TET for teachers appointed before 2009, citing education system concerns in Tripura.
- He questioned tribal welfare claims and raised issues related to forest rights and TTAADC empowerment.
- Choudhury criticised delayed salaries, road conditions and administrative decisions of the government.
Agartala: CPIM Tripura State Secretary Jitendra Choudhury has launched a sharp political attack on the BJP-led government in Tripura over handling of demands raised by groups identifying themselves as NLFT and ATTF. Expressing concerns on the Supreme Court order making the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for non-TET teachers, he made specific suggestions to the State Government.
Choudhury alleged that the government’s approach towards militant-related demands has failed to provide a permanent solution. He claimed repeated discussions, announcements and packages have not addressed the core issues.
He said such decisions have resulted in repeated disruptions, including road blockades, affecting ordinary people across Tripura.
According to Choudhury, several groups had returned to normal life after rehabilitation initiatives during earlier governments, including the Left Front regime. However, he alleged that the present administration has focused more on public announcements rather than effective implementation.
Govt Policy on NLFT & ATTF Demands Under Attack
Choudhury criticised the government’s handling of groups identifying themselves as MLFT and SDFT.
He alleged that agreements and financial packages announced through discussions from Delhi have not produced lasting results.
The CPIM leader said the government must take a final decision instead of allowing repeated protests and shutdown-like situations.
He stated that if any package or commitment has been made, the responsibility should not fall on common citizens through public inconvenience.
Choudhury warned that Tripura’s economy and daily life are already facing challenges. He said repeated blockades could increase public hardship.
| Issue | Choudhury’s Concern |
|---|---|
| NLFT and ATTF demands | Lack of permanent political solution |
| Government packages | Alleged failure in implementation |
| Road blockades | Impact on public life and economy |
| Rehabilitation process | Need for long-term resolution |
Opposition to Supreme Court TET Rule for Non-TET Teachers
Choudhury also strongly opposed the Supreme Court decision requiring non-TET teachers to qualify through TET.
He described the order as unfortunate and said it requires reconsideration.
According to him, the ruling creates difficulties for teachers appointed before 2009.
He said many such teachers have already completed 17 to 18 years of service and are now close to the final stage of their careers.
Choudhury argued that teachers appointed before the introduction of the new education system should not face the consequences of later policy changes.
He also highlighted teacher shortages in Tripura. He claimed thousands of teaching posts remain vacant and many schools operate with limited staff.
The CPIM leader urged the Tripura government to approach the Supreme Court through a review petition or seek a legal solution through the central government.
Tribal Welfare Claims and TIPRA Motha Politics
Choudhury also reacted to comments by TIPRA Motha leader Pradyot Kishore Debbarma regarding the role of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in tribal development.
He alleged that Debbarma maintains different political positions in Tripura and Delhi.
According to Choudhury, Debbarma criticises the BJP government while speaking in Tripura but adopts a different approach before BJP leaders in Delhi.
He claimed that the political differences between the BJP and TIPRA Motha create a “dramatic environment” to attract public support.
Choudhury also questioned claims regarding tribal development and raised concerns over the implementation of the Forest Rights Act.
He mentioned the pending 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which he said was intended to strengthen tribal councils and provide greater financial empowerment.
Questions Raised Over Reappointment of Retired Officials
Choudhury raised concerns over the continued appointment of retired officials in important government positions.
He said reappointment of retired officers has happened earlier too, but usually for shorter periods.
However, he alleged that some officials are now continuing in key departments for five to seven years despite the presence of senior IAS officers.
He claimed such practices create dissatisfaction within the administration and raise questions about possible vested interests.
The CPIM leader also referred to media reports alleging irregularities related to land and other matters. He questioned why the government has not provided detailed responses or ordered proper investigations.
Salary Delay Raises Concern Among Government Workers
Choudhury expressed concern over delayed salaries of thousands of workers linked with government programmes.
He specifically mentioned:
- MGNREGA employees
- Engineers
- IT professionals
- Anganwadi workers
- Contractual employees
He said these workers have contributed to Tripura’s development but are facing financial difficulties due to delayed payments.
Choudhury questioned how these families are managing their daily expenses and accused the government of ignoring their problems.
Tripura Highway Condition Called “National Embarrassment”
Choudhury also criticised the condition of national highways in Tripura.
He described the situation as a “national embarrassment” and questioned the quality of infrastructure projects.
He alleged that poor implementation affects roads, airports and railway projects in different parts of India.
According to him, citizens need to raise concerns over infrastructure quality and protection of public resources.
Demand for Detail Probe into Medical College Death
Reacting to the death of a female health worker at Tripura Santiniketan Medical College, Choudhury demanded a detailed investigation.
He questioned the early conclusion of suicide before a complete inquiry.
According to him, the case requires a proper criminal investigation to examine all possible aspects, including institutional responsibility.
He said the incident is serious and authorities must investigate deeply.
Criticism Over Centre’s Response to Indian Sailors’ Death
Choudhury criticised the central government’s response after three Indian sailors died in an attack on an Indian vessel near the Strait of Hormuz.
He alleged that India should have taken a stronger diplomatic position.
The CPIM leader questioned the government’s approach towards protecting Indian citizens and national interests.