CPI(M) draws attention to issues about child trafficking and suicides on last day of Tripura winter assembly session

Reported by Pinaki Das | Copy edited by Lipika Roy

On the last day of the Winter Session of the Tripura Legislative Assembly on Thursday, CPI(M) MLA Jitendra Chowdhury drew attention to issues including child trafficking, suicides, and an increase in crimes like robbery and theft due to poverty.

He also highlighted that a large number of people are leaving the state due to poverty.

Responding to Chowdhury’s concerns, Chief Minister Manik Saha referenced media reports to show that incidents of child selling were not new in the state and had occurred in the past.

However, CM Saha agreed that it was important to evaluate whether the government’s actions had indeed reduced these problems.

Chief Minister Saha described the measures the government has taken to tackle these issues.

He also provided details on initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic conditions in Tripura, countering claims of inaction.

In response to allegations raised by Chowdhury regarding poverty, Chief Minister Manik Saha defended the government’s position by explaining that certain policies such as Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee (MGNREGA) rates are determined by the central government, and the state government has sought adjustments through correspondence.

Regarding promises made by the BJP before the 2018 election, he clarified that MGNREGA rates are fixed based on the consumer price index for agriculture labour, making it challenging for the state government to unilaterally alter them.

The Chief Minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to create permanent assets in rural areas through MGNREGA, contributing to local employment and income generation.

He strongly refuted accusations of corruption and nepotism, claiming that the current administration had made substantial progress in improving the situation since taking office.

He emphasized the commitment to the development of the state and the socio-economic upliftment of Tripura’s residents.

Also Read: Tripura: 3 injured in bear attack