Agartala, November 03, 2025: A major controversy has erupted in Tripura after Tipra Motha MLA and former extremist leader Ranjit Debbarma allegedly made communal and provocative remarks against ‘Headlines Tripura’ National Editor and senior journalist Pranab Sarkar.

Condemning the remarks, the Indian Journalists Union (IJU) and several media organizations, including the Press Club of India and Agartala Press Club, have demanded strong action and adequate security for Sarkar.

Pranab Sarkar, who is also the All India Secretary of the Indian Journalists Union on Monday said he has faced numerous challenges and threats over the years for speaking truth to power.

“After the change in 2018, most threats, cases, and privileges have been made against me. All the information is in the archive. One day, the people of Tripura will know the full truth,” Sarkar said.

Responding to the recent caste-based attacks, Sarkar firmly asserted his identity and pride.

“Now, threats are being made about caste. I tell everyone that I am a proud Noakhali Bengali. Those who mock the people of Noakhali should know that Mahatma Gandhi’s feet touched this holy land during his peace mission in 1946. The Noakhali campaign was a historic attempt to restore harmony between Hindus and Muslims. I draw inspiration from that legacy of peace and unity,” he added.

Rejecting the attempts to intimidate him, Sarkar stated, “I cannot be intimidated by these threats. History has always judged those who mock any community. My language and my culture are my pride.”

Media bodies across the state have denounced the remarks made by Debbarma, calling them an attack on press freedom. They urged the government to ensure the safety of journalists and maintain an environment where the media can operate without fear or bias.

Journalists and citizens alike have expressed solidarity with Sarkar, emphasizing that such intimidation tactics are a direct threat to democracy and the freedom of expression.