BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 19th July 2025: In a sharp protest against the recent hike in water, electricity, and piped gas tariffs by the state government, the CPIM today staged a massive demonstration in Agartala. The rally began at Melarmath and concluded with a sit-in protest in front of the Water Board office drawing participation from party workers and supporters across the city.
CPIM leaders including former minister Manik Dey and Amal Chakraborty were present during the protest. Addressing the gathering, Manik Dey came down heavily on the state government’s decision to increase utility charges without improving the quality of services.
“The government has increased the price of water without setting up a single new plant. Before hiking the rates, they should have at least ensured uninterrupted water supply to urban residents. Instead, the service has deteriorated significantly,” Dey said.
He further alleged that the water supply situation is even worse in rural areas. “The government must immediately roll back the water tax. This is not just an urban issue, it affects people across the state,” he added.
Apart from water, Dey also raised concerns over the recent hike in milk prices. “The price of milk has now reached Rs 83.87 per litre. This is the second increase in just a few days. How can patients and the common man afford essential nutrition when incomes are not rising?” he asked.
Dey questioned the rationale behind the multiple tariff hikes. “No one knows why the government is burdening the people like this without any explanation. If the government doesn’t provide a valid justification, people will be forced to rise in protest,” he warned.
The veteran CPIM leader also accused the state government of suppressing dissent. “People have lost even their right to speak freely. But when patience runs out, people fight back. The government must answer for all this. Even voices from within the ruling party are expressing discontent,” he remarked.
Dey reiterated the party’s demand: “We urge the government to immediately withdraw the hikes in water, power, gas, and milk prices. This relentless burden on the public must stop.”
