Agartala: Former Tripura Chief Minister and senior CPI(M) leader Manik Sarkar on Thursday expressed strong concerns regarding recent calls for voter list revision in the state. Addressing a public gathering, Sarkar cautioned that such demands—reportedly inspired by a similar exercise in Bihar—may undermine the democratic values enshrined in the Constitution.
Speaking at a rally, Sarkar emphasized the need to uphold inclusivity and constitutional principles and criticized attempts to question people’s identities based on language or community. “If someone speaks Bengali, especially from the Muslim community, that doesn’t make them Bangladeshi. Speaking one’s mother tongue should not be a basis for exclusion,” he stated.
On the topic of smart electricity meters, Sarkar highlighted public concerns over increased billing and questioned the necessity of replacing functional traditional meters. He pointed out that while the BJP had opposed smart meters in Bengal, they are pushing for their implementation in Tripura. “There appears to be a profit-driven motive behind this initiative,” he said, adding that citizen protests are valid and reflect genuine grievances.
The veteran leader also marched in solidarity with the Tripura Fishermen’s Union, which organized a peaceful rally at the Governor’s House. The procession concluded near the Circuit House, where Sarkar, alongside other Left leaders, addressed the gathering and reaffirmed their support for the fishermen’s rights and livelihood concerns.
A six-member delegation later met the Governor, presenting a memorandum with 13 key demands aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions of the fishing community.
Through his participation and statements, Sarkar reaffirmed his commitment to protecting democratic values, ensuring transparency in governance, and advocating for the welfare of marginalized communities in Tripura.