Agartala: Nov 29: TIPRA Motha has launched a protest march in Agartala against the state government’s decision to build a five-star hotel at the historic Ujjayanta Palace. The march, which took place on the city streets, was accompanied by a delegation that submitted a formal memorandum to the Tourism Department. The decision, which had been revealed through social media, has sparked significant controversy, particularly among those who see it as an attempt to undermine Tripura’s rich heritage.
Addressing the media, a TIPRA Motha leader expressed strong opposition to the proposal, emphasizing that development should not come at the cost of erasing history. He pointed out that Ujjayanta Palace is a significant cultural and historical symbol for the people of Tripura, dating back to the time of the royal family. According to the leader, the Left Front government had previously attempted to erase aspects of Tripura’s history, and this new initiative to repurpose the palace into a luxury hotel could be seen as a continuation of that effort.
The protest leaders highlighted that while the people of Tripura, irrespective of caste or tribe, support the development of the state, they firmly believe that this development should not come at the expense of the state’s historical legacy. They argue that Tripura’s history, including the Ujjayanta Palace, is a crucial part of the state’s identity and should be preserved for future generations.
The TIPRA Motha leaders have called on the people of Tripura to unite in this cause, urging everyone to join the protest and prevent what they perceive as a destructive plan. They assert that while development is necessary, it should respect and safeguard the state’s cultural heritage, not replace it. The controversy surrounding the palace reflects broader debates about how to balance modern development with the preservation of history.
