Agartala, December 15:
Welfare Minister Sudhangshu Das on Monday called upon the youth of Tripura to remain vigilant against what he described as “Left-leaning ideology,” asserting that such beliefs are harmful to the nation’s cultural fabric. Speaking at a freshers’ welcome programme at Ambedkar College in Fatikroy, the minister said the Left ideology contradicted India’s long-preserved social and cultural values. “Without our values, we lose our identity,” he stated.
Addressing students, Das claimed that attempts were underway to weaken indigenous culture by promoting foreign ideologies. He urged the younger generation to stay rooted in India’s heritage and contribute towards strengthening the country.
Recalling the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack case, the minister alleged that sections of the Left had opposed the Supreme Court’s verdict awarding capital punishment to the prime accused. He encouraged students to stand firmly against what he termed “anti-national narratives,” insisting that such ideologies must be rejected to safeguard national interests.
Emphasising the need for a value-based education system, Das said academic degrees alone were not enough for building an ideal society. “Education must instil responsibility, ethics and commitment. We need a society that is morally and ethically strong,” he added.
The minister also stressed the importance of self-reliance, urging students to complement academic learning with skill development to secure sustainable livelihoods.
Criticising the former Left Front government, Das alleged that the recruitment process during its rule was plagued by nepotism and opacity. He asserted that under the present central and state governments, a transparent, merit-based recruitment system has been established through competitive examinations. “Now, no political influence, rallies or money power can secure jobs. Only merit counts,” he said.
He encouraged students, especially those from poorer backgrounds, to focus on skill enhancement and rigorous exam preparation.
The programme was attended by Unakoti Zilla Parishad Sabhadhipati Amalendu Das, acting principal Dr. Subrata Sharma, welcome committee president Dipshikha Nag, secretary Kamal Das and other dignitaries. Newly admitted students were greeted with floral welcomes by seniors and guests.
