Agartala, Oct 16: Tripura’s Fisheries and Animal Resource Development Minister Sudhangshu Das has strongly refuted allegations of corruption following the circulation of a controversial video that triggered sharp reactions from opposition parties and a storm on social media.
In the viral clip, Das appears to acknowledge that elected representatives often receive monetary favours from contractors executing government projects—a statement that sparked outrage, with opposition CPI(M) and Congress demanding his removal from the cabinet.
Addressing the media on Thursday, Das dismissed the allegations and termed the video as “doctored” and “misrepresented out of context.” He clarified that the footage was captured informally after an interview with a social media-based media outlet.
“They had been seeking an interview for two months. After it concluded, they requested funds—Rs 5 to 7 lakh annually—for covering my activities. I declined and, during an informal conversation, I explained how funds are typically arranged for social work. It was then that they recorded the video,” said Das.
He claimed that only a selective and edited portion of the conversation was released with the intent to malign his image. “I challenge them to release the full video to let the public judge the truth,” he said.
Das also announced plans to file defamation suits against the media outlet and CPI(M) Politburo member Jitendra Chaudhury. “Chaudhury accused my brother of being the state’s top taxpayer. If he proves it, I’ll quit politics. Otherwise, he must publicly apologize by October 26,” Das asserted.
He further informed that a police case is being filed at Fatikroy against the media outlet for blackmail. “Legal action will proceed after the court vacation ends on October 26,” the Minister added.
