Agartala: May 20: In response to the Central Government’s notification regarding the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) across the country, a deputation opposing the CAA to be submitted to the Chief Secretary in Tripura. The initiative was led by the Pradesh Congress.
MLA Sudip Roy Barman, speaking at a press conference today, expressed concerns about the potential impact of granting citizenship to citizens of neighboring countries based on their applications. He emphasized that such a move could lead to significant demographic changes, affecting various aspects including jobs and GDP distribution. The people of Tripura strongly oppose this outcome.
Barman also criticized the government’s motives, suggesting that the nationwide implementation of the CAA was driven primarily by electoral considerations. Notably, the CAA will not apply in the Autonomous District Council (ADC) areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram, but remains applicable outside the ADC of Tripura.
Taking a dig at former Tipra Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Dev Barman, Barman highlighted the inconsistency in his stance. While Pradyot had previously opposed the CAA’s implementation in northeastern states, he is now posting about it on social media, leading to skepticism among the public.
Barman concluded by emphasizing that granting Indian citizenship to citizens from neighboring countries could significantly alter Tripura’s demographics and impact essential services. Despite existing challenges related to work, food, water, electricity, and infrastructure, the government’s decision remains controversial.