In a significant political development, Congress MLA and CWC member Sudip Roy Barman made a bold declaration on Monday, asserting that Left parties have no future in Tripura and confirming that Congress will contest the upcoming elections alone in the state.
Political Shift in Tripura
Roy Barman's statement comes as a surprise given the apparent bonhomie between Congress and CPM over the past two years, which was primarily aimed at preventing the rise of BJP in the region. Addressing a joining program at Dharmanagar in North Tripura district, the Congress leader claimed that the public now wants to see Congress in power.
The event witnessed 137 families joining Congress, marking a significant shift in political allegiance in the region. Among these new entrants, 102 families previously supported CPM while 35 others have also affiliated with the party.
Direct Challenge to Ruling Parties
Roy Barman didn't mince words while criticizing both CPM and BJP. "I want to thank all of you for joining Congress, leaving CPM. You have realized that supporting CPM means helping BJP. In this state, CPM has no future", he stated emphatically.
The Congress leader reminded people about the 25-year rule of CPM in Tripura, suggesting that voters haven't forgotten this extended tenure. "People want something new. We have seen 25 years of CPM and BJP government as well, and now people want to see a Congress government", he added.
Roy Barman positioned Congress as the only party genuinely fighting for the people, emphasizing its commitment to various sections of society. "Congress is working for the poor, minorities, SC, OBC, and ST people and to protect their rights", he affirmed.
Serious Allegations Against Ruling Government
The Congress leader launched a scathing attack on the current administration, highlighting multiple failures in governance. He particularly emphasized the growing drug menace in the state, alleging that the situation has become grim under the present government.
Roy Barman pointed to the severe employment crisis, noting that over 51,000 government posts remain vacant despite promises of job creation. "Having a double-engine government, they are not opening any factories.... Law and order have totally collapsed, gang rape, murder, etc. are on the rise", he claimed.
The Congress MLA also accused BJP of manipulating electoral processes, stating that "BJP is using the Election Commission and by stealing votes they are in power." He referenced Rahul Gandhi's alleged evidence supporting these claims.
This strong stance from a senior Congress leader indicates a significant shift in the party's strategy in Tripura, potentially reshaping the political landscape ahead of crucial state elections.