Agartala, May 29, 2026: Tipra Motha Party founder and Tripura’s royal scion Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the erstwhile CPI(M) government over its alleged attempt to alter the identity of the historic Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala.

Drawing a comparison between Kolkata’s iconic Victoria Memorial and Tripura’s Ujjayanta Palace, Pradyot questioned why the name of the memorial dedicated to the British Queen was never changed in West Bengal during the long Left rule, while efforts were allegedly made to rename Tripura’s royal palace.

“Calcutta is home to the Victoria Memorial, while Tripura houses the Ujjayanta Palace. The CPI(M) government did not change the name of the memorial dedicated to the English Queen. However, they attempted to change the name of the Ujjayanta Palace, the palace of Tripura’s King,” Pradyot said while addressing a gathering.

He further said the move reflected a “double standard”, alleging that the legacy and history of Tripura’s royal family were not given due respect.

Pradyot also referred to the statue installed in front of the Ujjayanta Palace and questioned the rationale behind such decisions. “Have you ever seen a statue standing in front of the Victoria Memorial? There is one in front of the Ujjayanta Palace,” he remarked repeatedly during his speech.

The remarks have once again brought the debate surrounding Tripura’s royal heritage and the historical significance of the Ujjayanta Palace into the political spotlight.

The Ujjayanta Palace, one of Tripura’s most prominent landmarks, was once the royal residence of the Manikya dynasty and currently houses the State Museum.