Agartala, August 20, 2025: The Tipra Motha Party (TMP) has lodged a strong protest against the placement of a heart-shaped sign near the half-bust statue of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya DebBarman in Agartala, terming it an act of “disrespect” to the visionary king and architect of modern Tripura.

In a letter dated August 18, senior TMP leader and former MLA Rajeshwar Debbarma wrote to Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, expressing “immense anguish and displeasure” over the matter. Debbarma alleged that the heart-shaped sign, seemingly installed to promote Ward 20 of the Agartala Municipal Corporation, undermines the sanctity and dignity of the landmark inaugurated by the Chief Minister himself.

“I strongly protest against the placement of a heart-shaped sign at the site of the half-bust statue of the Maharaja… The display of this sign not only undermines the sanctity of the site but is also visually unappealing. I therefore request that those responsible for this act of disrespect be held accountable,” Debbarma wrote.

In response, the Chief Minister’s Secretariat issued an acknowledgement letter on August 20, assuring that the matter has been discussed with the Agartala Municipal Corporation for appropriate action.

“The Hon’ble Chief Minister has discussed the matter with Agartala Municipal authority for taking appropriate action. This is for your kind information,” the letter signed by Under Secretary S. Das stated.

TMP has urged the state government to take immediate corrective measures to restore the dignity of the site, which stands as a significant symbol of Tripura’s modern history.