Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Thursday firmly declared that the state is no longer a “safe zone” for infiltrators, citing the coordinated efforts of security agencies and intensified border vigilance to curb illegal entry from Bangladesh. Speaking to reporters at Raj Bhavan, the Chief Minister said that strict action has been taken to prevent cross-border infiltration, particularly following recent political unrest in Bangladesh. “The day Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left her country following student protests and unrest, I immediately met with security agencies and instructed them to prevent any infiltration across the border,” he said. Saha credited the proactive deployment of security forces and intelligence units in border areas for sending a strong signal to those attempting to enter the state illegally. “A strong message has already been sent to Bangladesh — it is not possible to enter Tripura and stay back using fake Aadhaar cards,” he asserted.
His statement comes at a time when the Tipra Motha Party (TMP) — a key ally of the BJP in the state — has intensified its anti-infiltration campaign. TMP leaders have been vocal in demanding urgent measures to identify and deport undocumented immigrants, with the issue gaining renewed momentum in recent weeks. Addressing the growing political heat, Saha assured that the state government is already taking adequate steps and remains open to dialogue. “We are not ignoring the concerns of TMP. If they still have issues, we are willing to sit and discuss,” he said. The infiltration issue further escalated after a video surfaced on social media, showing Forest Minister and senior TMP leader Animesh Debbarma reportedly urging party workers in Sabroom, South Tripura, to “drive away Bangladeshis back to their country by caning.” The controversial remark sparked criticism across political circles and civil society.
Reacting to the video, CM Saha refrained from making a direct comment but remarked, “The truth is the truth… no one can twist the truth.”Meanwhile, TMP legislator Ranjit Debbarma has formally written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, demanding that the Centre take immediate action to identify and deport illegal infiltrators. His letter emphasized the demographic and security challenges posed by unchecked immigration, particularly in border districts.
