Guwahati: Tripura’s political tensions escalated on Monday as Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury called for the immediate dismissal of Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma from the Manik Saha cabinet, accusing him of issuing threats and making remarks that violate constitutional norms and democratic conduct.
Chaudhury’s demand stems from comments allegedly made by Debbarma at a public rally in Agartala on December 13. At the event, the minister reportedly warned leaders and supporters of the Tipra Motha Party (TMP) that he would “rip them apart like chicken” if they failed to restrain what he described as disruptive activities. The rally was attended by Chief Minister Manik Saha, BJP state president Rajib Bhattacharjee, and cabinet colleagues Sushanta Chowdhury and Tinku Roy.
The Tipra Motha Party, along with the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), currently serves as a junior ally of the BJP in the state’s NDA government.
In a video message circulated on social media, Chaudhury denounced the minister’s remarks as inflammatory and unconstitutional, arguing that such statements amount to a cognisable offence. He stressed that while political disagreements and criticism of rival parties are part of democratic discourse, a serving minister cannot resort to threats or violent language against any political group.
Chaudhury urged Governor N. Indrasena Reddy and Chief Minister Manik Saha to act decisively by removing Debbarma from the Cabinet. He warned that inaction could further aggravate Tripura’s already fragile political climate and deepen mistrust among coalition partners and the public.