Agartala: Mar 10: The Chief Minister’s plans to set up a primary health center within the boundaries of the Fourteen Gods Temple in Khayerpur, the capital city, have faced strong opposition, especially from Tipra Motha leader Pradyot Kishore Debbarman. On Monday, a meeting was held under Pradyot Kishore Debbarman’s leadership at the temple, where he expressed his concerns about the government’s decision to establish a health center within the temple premises.
Pradyot revealed that he had learned about the plan recently and, after meeting with Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, visited the site to investigate the matter. He discovered that there have been longstanding complaints about illegal activities taking place within the temple grounds. The state government had decided to set up the health center behind the temple, but, according to Pradyot, the royal family, which has long been associated with the temple, was not informed about the move.
While Pradyot made it clear that he does not oppose the establishment of a health center for the public’s benefit, he emphasized the need for transparency, especially since the Fourteen Gods Temple is a significant cultural and historical landmark. He pointed out that, during the reign of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur, the temple was donated for religious purposes, and any work within its premises should be conducted with proper consultation. Without such transparency, misunderstandings may arise. The temple attracts around 25 lakh visitors annually and holds deep emotional and cultural significance for the people.
In response, local MLA Ratan Chakraborty downplayed the issue, stating that the health center will benefit the entire area, as there is no facility nearby. He clarified that the health center will not be within the temple’s boundary but a little further from it. The issue is expected to be revisited in a meeting scheduled in twenty days to resolve the confusion and ensure the proper implementation of the plan.
