By TC News Desk
Agartala, 24th March 2025: The Tripura Assembly witnessed a heated discussion on Monday as Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman raised concerns over a High Court directive ordering a compensation of Rs 28 crore to a foreign contractor involved in the construction of an international stadium under the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA). The issue was brought to the forefront during the second day of the budget session, with MLA Barman urging Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha to intervene in the matter.
Justice Arindam Lodh of the Tripura High Court, who is retiring on Tuesday had issued the compensation order, reportedly in an attempt to resolve a long-standing legal dispute. The contractor in question had been engaged in the construction of the International Ground at Narsingarh, a project marred by allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
Addressing the Assembly, MLA Sudip Roy Barman did not mince words as he highlighted the alleged irregularities within the TCA. “In 2023, there were serious allegations of corruption involving crores of rupees in the installation of floodlights at MBB Stadium and the construction of the International Ground at Narsingarh. An SIT was formed on the orders of the High Court to investigate these allegations, but the findings of that committee have yet to be made public,” he stated.
Barman further appealed to the Chief Minister, urging the state government to delay the payment of compensation to the contractor. “The state government must ensure that public funds are not misused. I request the Chief Minister to take immediate steps to address this issue,” he said.
In response, Chief Minister Dr Saha clarified the government’s position, emphasizing the autonomy of the TCA. “The Tripura Cricket Association is a self-governing body and as such, the state government cannot directly interfere in its affairs. Moreover, the matter is currently subjudice. However, I assure the Assembly that the court will thoroughly investigate the issue,” he explained.
The Chief Minister’s remarks did little to quell the concerns raised by the Congress MLA, who reiterated the need for transparency and accountability in the handling of public funds. The debate has brought renewed attention to the governance of the TCA and the broader issue of corruption in sports administration in the state.
