Former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar has launched a scathing attack on the state government over its handling of political rallies. Speaking at a gathering in Kanchanmala, near the state capital, Sarkar asserted, “We will hold our rally in Agartala, and no one can stop the people.”

Sarkar also accused TIPRA Motha of betrayal, claiming, “Had TIPRA Motha not betrayed us, the BJP alliance would have been defeated in the 2023 assembly elections.”

The controversy arose when the CPIM’s request to organize a public meeting at Swami Vivekananda Maidan in Agartala on January 29 was rejected, as the venue was preoccupied with a government program.

Their alternative proposal to use the smaller field at Umakanta School was also denied, citing ongoing school sessions that could disrupt students.