Tripura Journalists’ Union condemns MLA’s alleged false case against senior editor

By TC News Desk

Agartala, 27^th October 2025:   The Tripura Journalists’ Union (TJU) has expressed grave concern over a police case filed against Pranab Sarkar, the Union’s All India Secretary and Acting President of its State Committee. The complaint was lodged by Ranjit Debbarma, a legislator from the Tipra Motha party and a former leader of a surrendered militant outfit.

In a strongly worded statement, TJU alleged that the case was politically motivated and aimed at defaming Sarkar. The union claimed that the controversy surrounding an identity card central to the complaint was baseless, as the card had already circulated widely on social media and featured in multiple news broadcasts prior to the filing.

“This targeted action against Sarkar is an attempt to mislead the public and sow division among journalists. No other individual has been implicated, which clearly indicates a personal vendetta,” the statement read.

TJU, the largest journalists’ body in the state representing members across ethnic communities, highlighted Sarkar’s longstanding contributions to inclusive journalism. During his tenure as Secretary of the Agartala Press Club, Sarkar led the formation of the Khumulwng Press Club to empower tribal journalists, a first in Tripura’s media landscape. He was also honored as a guest at its inaugural ceremony and has consistently advocated for recognition and awards for tribal reporters.

Despite these efforts, the union alleged that Debbarma has continued to provoke Sarkar through his personal social media platforms, including the unauthorized use of Sarkar’s profile photo. TJU accused the MLA of deliberately attempting to fracture journalistic unity in the state.

Calling for immediate legal action against Debbarma and enhanced security for Sarkar, the union urged Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha to intervene. It warned that failure to curb such provocations could lead to a statewide agitation by journalists.

Santosh Gope, Executive General Secretary of the Tripura Journalists’ Union informed this in a press communiqué today.