Former CM Questions Victory Predictions in Tribal Council Elections

Former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar has dismissed BJP and Tipra Motha's claims of winning all seats in the upcoming tribal council elections, emphasizing that a true mandate will surface only if citizens can vote without intimidation. He criticized past elections for irregularities and demanded free and fair upcoming elections.

Former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar on Thursday challenged the BJP and Tipra Motha's assertions that they would win all seats in the upcoming Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council elections. Speaking at Bishalgarh in the Sipahijala district, Sarkar underscored the improbability of both parties achieving a clean sweep while contesting independently.

Sarkar, pointing to previous allegations of electoral misconduct, lamented the widespread irregularities that marred the 2021 council elections, where voters faced intimidation, harassment, and violence. He accused ruling parties of creating an atmosphere of fear, stifling voters' rights.

Sarkar remained confident that if elections were conducted free of undue influence and intimidation, the CPI(M)'s position would be strong, potentially dismissing the BJP and Tipra Motha's ambitious predictions. The elections have been scheduled for April, leaving all parties vying for control over the council.

(With inputs from agencies.)