Agartala, September 12, 2025: Tripura Congress MLA and former BJP Minister Sudip Roy Barman strongly criticized Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarman on Thursday, accusing him of making provocative statements out of political frustration ahead of the District Council and Village Committee elections.

The controversy erupted after a video of Pradyot went viral on social media, in which he claimed to be the “owner” of Agartala, Teliamura, and Kanchanpur during a protest in New Delhi. Although Pradyot later clarified that his remarks were a reaction to the Amra Bangali party, the statement triggered widespread debate across the state.

Speaking at the Pradesh Congress Bhavan, Barman firmly rejected Pradyot’s claims, emphasizing that the “real owners of Tripura are its people.” He remarked, “If Pradyot still thinks he is living in the princely era, then he must understand that India is a sovereign democratic republic and princely states no longer exist.”

Barman further suggested that the controversial statement reflected the growing disillusionment within Tipra Motha, citing unfulfilled commitments of the Tiprasa Accord by the Central and state governments. “With elections approaching, such provocative remarks appear to be a tactic to divert the indigenous people’s attention from pressing issues,” he added.

Concluding his statement, Barman urged for a constructive political approach, stating, “If Pradyot wishes to make a meaningful contribution to Tripura’s politics, it is time for a change in mindset.”