Agartala: July 13 — The Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Sunday observed the first death anniversary of party activist Badal Chandra Shil, who was killed during the violence that preceded last year’s panchayat elections. The memorial event, held at Chottakhola in Belonia, took place amid protests from supporters of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Despite attempts to disrupt the event, including slogan-shouting by BJP supporters near the venue, the programme continued without incident due to heavy police presence. Key speakers included former Tripura Chief Minister and senior CPIM leader Manik Sarkar.
In his address, Sarkar paid tribute to Shil, describing him as a “soldier of democracy” who sacrificed his life fighting to restore democratic rights in Tripura. He highlighted Shil’s contributions, particularly his role in founding an English-medium school aimed at uplifting students from rural communities.
“This memorial isn’t just to mourn; it’s a call for action,” Sarkar said. “The tasks left incomplete by Badal must be carried forward with determination.”
Sarkar also launched a scathing attack on the ruling BJP, accusing it of relying on violence and electoral manipulation to maintain power. “History proves no party is invincible,” he said, citing the downfall of past political regimes like Congress-TUJS and even Indira Gandhi’s post-war decline.
He further criticized the Tipra Motha Party, which governs the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), accusing it of mismanagement and aligning with BJP interests. Sarkar claimed public servants under Tipra Motha’s rule are struggling to secure basic post-retirement benefits, while party leaders enjoy luxury trips abroad.
The memorial event not only honored Shil’s legacy but also served as a political rallying cry for CPIM’s ongoing resistance against what it calls a failing and authoritarian regime.
