BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 12th June 2025: Tensions erupted at the Netaji Colony Anganwadi Kendra in Bishramganj Gram Panchayat’s Amtali area this morning as local tribal women locked the facility demanding the replacement of the newly appointed worker.
The protest stemmed from the appointment of Manti Bhowmik Datta, a Bengali woman from Ward No. 2 as the new worker, a role traditionally filled by individuals who oversee early childhood care and education at the center. The appointment sparked outrage among villagers, who argued that the position should have gone to a tribal candidate from the local community.
Speaking to the media personnel here, Kajal Rani Debbarma, an elected representative of Ward No. 3 expressed frustration over the hiring decision. “All the children at this center belong to the tribal community. How can someone who doesn’t speak our language or understand our culture teach them?” she questioned.
Villagers claimed that Suniti Debbarma, a qualified local candidate who had applied for the position was unfairly overlooked. Adding to their grievances, they cited historical ties, Debbarma’s grandfather-in-law Dulu Moni Debbarma had donated the land where the Kendra now stands.
Former worker Namita Debbarma, who retired six months back was also a tribal member reinforcing local expectations that the vacancy would be filled by someone from the same background. “The Kendra falls under the ST quota, so why was a general category candidate selected? We demand answers,” said one protester.
In an act of defiance, residents locked the doors of the Kendra and vowed not to reopen them until their demands were met. “We will not allow this center to function unless Suniti Debbarma is appointed. This decision goes against our rights,” declared a local woman leading the protest.
