Agartala, February 27, 2026: Emphasising that accountability is the cornerstone of any democratic system, Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Friday called upon public representatives to remain constantly connected with the people and work with responsibility and integrity.
Addressing a seminar and workshop on “Responsibility and Accountability of Public Representatives Towards All Sections of Society” at Pragya Bhavan, the Chief Minister said democracy can only be strengthened when elected representatives listen to the electorate and act with transparency. “The main foundation of a democratic system is accountability. Public representatives must move forward keeping this principle at the core,” he said.
Warning against electoral malpractice, Dr Saha urged leaders to abandon the culture of winning votes through tricks or muscle power. “Forget about winning elections through judgment or trickery. The people are watching everything. Those who think they can win through force are living in a fool’s paradise,” he cautioned.
Recalling his interactions with former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, the Chief Minister said he had been advised to maintain constant contact with grassroots workers and to always respect the opposition. “Such guidance is essential for nurturing a healthy democratic culture,” he noted.
Dr Saha stressed that elected representatives must never forget their accountability after elections. “One should always speak to voters with a smile, listen patiently and try to resolve their problems. The electorate must be heard, irrespective of whether they voted for you or not,” he said, asserting that this long-standing practice of selective listening should not continue in Tripura.
Highlighting that the Constitution guarantees rights to every citizen, the Chief Minister advised representatives to visit their constituencies regularly, work for people’s welfare and protect their rights. “Only then will the people remember you,” he said, adding that acceptance by the people is the greatest strength in a democracy.
Linking the state’s progress with national development, Dr Saha said, “To build a developed India, Tripura must also be developed. Public representatives should regularly visit their areas and carry out information-based, positive outreach to ensure effective implementation of government schemes.”
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister reminded the representatives that public service is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. “You have been given the chance to serve the people. Work in such a way that future generations remember your contribution,” he said.
