Agartala, 28th June 2026: Serious allegations have emerged against MLA Antara Sarkar Deb in connection with the Harishnagar Tea Garden, with local sources claiming misuse of power, irregular land conversion, and alleged harassment of workers. The MLA has not issued any public response to these claims at the time of reporting.
According to local reports, the historic Harishnagar Tea Garden—originally established on a lease during the princely era—has long been known for producing tea that enjoys a strong reputation within Tripura and beyond. However, the situation has reportedly deteriorated sharply amid an ongoing legal dispute over land classification within the estate.
Sources associated with the plantation management claim that several portions of the garden land were allegedly converted into government “khas” land, triggering objections and subsequent legal action. Following the dispute, the management is said to have initiated court proceedings and temporarily halted tea production entirely.
The shutdown has reportedly led to a breakdown in operations, with managerial staff and other officials leaving the estate. As a result, the garden is currently described as being in a state of administrative and operational paralysis.
The impact on workers has been severe. Around 250 families dependent on the tea garden are reportedly struggling without regular income or food security. Workers claim that their households are facing acute distress, with many unable to meet basic daily needs. Retired employees are also reportedly affected, with pending dues such as provident fund and gratuity payments remaining unsettled, according to local accounts.
Some workers further allege that pre-election promises regarding land allocation and welfare support were not fulfilled, leading to growing resentment within the community. However, these statements reflect the claims of workers and have not been independently verified.
The situation has sparked significant local concern and political tension in the area. Observers warn that if the dispute remains unresolved, conditions in the tea garden region could worsen further in the coming days.
