Congress Urges Tripura Governor to Investigate Minister Bikash Debbarma for Corruption Allegations

The Congress party has approached Tripura Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu, requesting an investigation into Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma over alleged corruption. A delegation of five members from the state Congress, led by President Asish Kumar Saha, met with the governor. "We sought the governor's intervention on the sensitive issue," Saha informed reporters.

Allegations of Corruption

Saha accused Debbarma of being involved in corrupt practices related to a Rs 14,000-crore socio-economic development project for tribals, funded by the World Bank. According to Saha, Debbarma had declared himself a social worker in his election affidavit, stating assets worth Rs 56 lakh and listing his spouse as a housewife. However, within a year and five months of becoming a minister, his wealth reportedly increased significantly.

Undisclosed Assets

Saha further alleged that Debbarma now claims ownership of a flat in Delhi and has under-construction houses in Lambucherra, Nandannagar, and Teliamura. These assets were not disclosed in his election affidavit. Saha accused Debbarma of misleading the Election Commission by submitting false information.

Congress Demands Action

The state Congress is demanding not only Debbarma's removal from his ministerial position but also his dismissal as a member of the assembly. They believe these actions are necessary due to the alleged discrepancies in his asset declarations and the corruption charges.

BJP's Response

BJP spokesperson Nabendu Bhattacharjee dismissed the allegations against Debbarma as untrue. "The allegations levelled against the minister are not true and we strongly deny them. We are with him," Bhattacharjee stated. He suggested that the opposition is attempting to distract people by making baseless accusations.

The situation remains tense as both parties stand firm on their positions regarding the allegations against Minister Bikash Debbarma.