Agartala: Tipra Motha Party leader and Minister of State in Tripura, Birshaketu Debbarma, on Tuesday wrote to the State Election Commission alleging violation of the Model Code of Conduct by Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma during campaigning for the TTAADC elections.
In his complaint, Debbarma alleged that Bikash Debbarma, while campaigning in the 9-Hala Hali-Asharambari (ST) constituency, made a public statement suggesting that votes cast in favour of Tipra Motha would be transferred to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The letter stated that such remarks could create confusion among voters and raise concerns regarding the integrity of the electoral process. It further alleged that the statement amounted to misleading voters and undermining confidence in free and fair elections.
Debbarma also pointed out that the remarks were made by a sitting minister holding the Tribal Welfare portfolio, which is linked to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), and said this could send an inappropriate message regarding the neutrality of the electoral process.
The complaint further cited reports of alleged misuse of official government vehicles by the minister for transporting campaign materials, including flags and pamphlets, during the election period. It termed the alleged acts as a violation of the Model Code of Conduct and misuse of government machinery for electoral purposes.
Seeking action, Debbarma urged the State Election Commission to take cognisance of the matter and initiate an inquiry. He also requested the Commission to direct the minister to issue an unconditional apology to the Commission and a public apology to voters, and to bar him from campaigning for the remainder of the election period.
The Tipra Motha leader further called for a probe into the alleged use of official vehicles and sought appropriate action in accordance with election rules.
The State Election Commission has not yet issued any official response to the complaint at the time of filing this report.