Agartala, 17th October 2026 : Leader of the Opposition and CPI(M) State Secretary Jitendra Chaudhury on Saturday accused the BJP-led government in Tripura of allegedly using a section of surrendered insurgents for electoral benefits, holding Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha responsible for the political circumstances behind the ongoing 72-hour protest. Condemning road blockades and shutdowns that inconvenience the public, Chaudhury alleged that certain former insurgents become active before elections to secure additional benefits, disrupting normal life, particularly during the festive season.
Addressing a programme marking the 107th anniversary of the Communist Party of India (CPI), Chaudhury clarified that his criticism was not directed at all surrendered insurgents. Many, he said, had returned to mainstream society and were now pursuing political activities, agriculture or family life. However, he alleged that a small section was being used by the ruling BJP whenever elections approached.
He suggested that the current protest might be linked to demands for fresh concessions after previously granted rehabilitation benefits had been exhausted. He also alleged that assurances involving district officials and ministers had encouraged the protesters to stage their demonstration. Chaudhury urged them to abandon disruptive activities, warning that public resentment could grow.
Reflecting on the Communist movement’s history, Chaudhury said Communists had made significant sacrifices during India’s freedom struggle despite British repression and conspiracy cases. He recalled the establishment of the CPI in Tashkent in 1919 and the subsequent emergence of the CPI(M) in 1964.
Drawing comparisons with the colonial era, he accused the RSS and BJP of attempting to weaken Communist forces. He also alleged that the Centre was undermining constitutional principles, including secularism, democracy and federalism, while seeking to influence the Election Commission.
Chaudhury said the anniversary pledge must go beyond symbolic celebrations, asserting that the CPI(M) would continue its struggle to protect constitutional values, democratic rights and the interests of ordinary citizens.
