Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma has moved court alleging false and defamatory statements made by MLA Ranjit Debbarma during election campaigns. The case will be heard on April 30, while the MLA denies naming any minister in his speeches.
Tripura has witnessed an internal political and legal tussle within the Tipra Motha Party, as Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma has approached a court alleging defamation against fellow party MLA Ranjit Debbarma.
According to reports from Agartala dated April 14, the minister has filed a defamation complaint before the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court in West Tripura. The complaint was submitted through his legal counsel, who confirmed that the matter will now be examined judicially. This development is significant as it highlights internal conflict within the Tipra Motha Party, especially during a politically sensitive period surrounding local elections.
The dispute arises from statements allegedly made by Ranjit Debbarma during election campaigning for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC). In his petition, Animesh Debbarma has claimed that the MLA made remarks that were not only false but also harmful to his reputation.
As per the minister’s legal counsel Sankar Lodh, the allegations made during the campaign included serious claims regarding property ownership and personal conduct. He stated,
“These claims are false,” strongly rejecting accusations that the minister had purchased “two flats and a plot” and that “talks were going on to buy a flat in Delhi”.
The counsel further emphasized that such statements were baseless and intended to defame the minister.
The petition also refers to another allegation made by the MLA, where he reportedly claimed that the minister was involved in inappropriate conduct. Addressing this, the counsel said,
“The Tipra Motha Party’s Ramchandraghat MLA (Ranjit Debbarma) also accused the minister of staying in forest bungalows to attend parties with a few women. This allegation is baseless,”
thereby dismissing the claims as completely unfounded.
The CJM court in West Tripura has scheduled the hearing of the defamation case for April 30, indicating that the matter will soon undergo judicial scrutiny.
On the other hand, Ranjit Debbarma has denied the allegations made against him. Responding to the claims, he clarified his position and stated,
“I have not mentioned any minister’s name in my speeches.”
He further added,
“I will submit a statement clarifying my stand when the defamation notice is served to me,”
indicating that he will formally respond once legal notice reaches him.
This case reflects how political disagreements can escalate into legal battles, especially when allegations impact personal reputation. The outcome of the proceedings will be closely watched, as it may also influence internal dynamics within the Tipra Motha Party as well as public perception ahead of future elections.
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