Agartala, October 28, 2025: The Press Club of India (PCI) and the Tripura Journalists’ Union (TJU) have expressed serious concern over alleged harassment of veteran Tripura journalist Pranab Sarkar, who is also a member of the PCI. Both organizations have condemned the filing of a police complaint against him, describing it as a deliberate attempt to intimidate the press.

In a statement issued by PCI President Gautam Lahiri, the Club said a surrendered militant leader, who is currently an MLA in the Tripura Legislative Assembly has lodged a “false complaint” against Sarkar in an attempt to prevent him from publishing reports on alleged misconduct. The PCI urged the media fraternity to stand in solidarity with Sarkar and called on the state government to ensure his protection.

Meanwhile, the Tripura Journalists’ Union, the largest journalists’ body in the state, has raised alarm over the complaint filed by Tipra Motha party MLA Ranjit Debbarma, a former leader of a surrendered militant group. The TJU termed the case “politically motivated and defamatory,” asserting that the identity card at the centre of the controversy had already been in the public domain and widely covered by multiple media outlets before the complaint was made.

“This targeted action is aimed at misleading the public and creating divisions within the media community. The complaint against Sarkar alone clearly reflects personal vendetta,” the TJU said in its statement.

The union highlighted Sarkar’s longstanding role in promoting inclusive journalism, including his efforts to empower tribal journalists through the establishment of the Khumulwng Press Club. It alleged that the MLA has continuously targeted Sarkar through social media and misused his profile image without consent.

Calling on Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha to intervene, the TJU demanded immediate legal action against the MLA and enhanced security for Sarkar, warning that continued provocation may trigger a statewide agitation by journalists.