BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 5th March 2024: The business community of Tripura is mourning the loss of one of its most esteemed members, Swapan Kumar Paul, who passed away on Tuesday afternoon at AMRI Hospital in Kolkata, at the age of 69.
Swapan Kumar Paul, a renowned figure in the transport sector and a beacon of entrepreneurship, had been battling age-related health issues for several months. His health took a turn for the worse a few weeks ago following a pneumonia diagnosis, leading to an eight-day period of ventilation at the hospital.
Paul’s journey from a humble beginning in Ranir Bazar, Nalgharia, to becoming the owner of Ramkrishna Industries, and serving as the Managing Director of Tata Motors at Chandrapur and Oscar Ford at Chinaihani in Agartala, is a testament to his business acumen and investment prowess.
He leaves behind his wife, two sons, a daughter-in-law, and a wide circle of relatives and friends who are deeply saddened by his departure. Plans are underway to transport Paul’s remains to Agartala on Wednesday morning, where he will be accompanied by his family.
The legacy of Swapan Kumar Paul as a leading investor in the business landscape of Tripura, particularly in the transport sector, will be remembered and cherished by many.
Swapan’s business was thriving until an erroneous tax claim of Rs 206 crores by the Income Tax department threatened its foundation. After a lengthy legal struggle and escalating the matter to senior officials, he emerged victorious in the Income Tax Tribunal.
While dealing with corrupt FCI officials who unjustly withheld his payments as a transport contractor, Swapan faced numerous legal battles, winning even in the Supreme Court. However, he only received partial payment. Concurrently, he lost his TATA Motors dealership. Presently, he is still owed significant sums by various government departments. Despite these challenges, Swapan, a dedicated Rotary Club member, continued to make substantial donations to social causes, individuals, and institutions.
He was poised to launch a star hotel in the Lichu Bagan locality, yet this venture too hit a snag due to the deceitful actions of the United Commercial Bank.
