Tensions flared in Agartala on Wednesday as members of the BJP’s Janajati Morcha stormed the old MLA hostel complex to protest against Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman’s controversial remarks concerning a recent incident in Madhya Pradesh. The protest was sparked by Barman’s statement alleging BJP affiliation of a man seen urinating on a tribal worker—a video that had earlier gone viral and drawn national outrage.
Speaking at a public gathering in Ambassa, Dhalai district, Barman used the incident to accuse the BJP of harboring animosity towards marginalized communities, especially Scheduled Castes. His remarks quickly circulated on social media, prompting a backlash from the BJP’s tribal wing.
Led by Tripura BJP state General Secretary Bipin Debbarma, the Janajati Morcha staged a demonstration demanding a public apology. “Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman made unconstitutional remarks. His statement is totally unacceptable. He should either apologise or resign,” Debbarma said, adding that statewide protests would follow.
During the protest, tempers flared and several chairs were reportedly damaged. Some demonstrators allegedly hurled stones and bricks at the legislator’s residence within the complex.
Reacting to the unrest, Roy Barman, who also serves on the Congress Working Committee, defended his remarks. “This protest can’t change the truth. The BJP hates people from the ST, SC, and OBC communities. If that isn’t true, how can someone urinate on another human being in broad daylight?” he said, referencing the MP incident.
He also cited a separate event in Odisha where two Scheduled Caste men were allegedly humiliated by cow vigilantes. “I have no grudge against the tribal brothers and sisters who protested. But these are not isolated cases—they reflect a deeper malaise,” Barman stated.
The episode adds to the escalating political friction in Tripura and highlights the growing polarisation over caste-related incidents nationwide. Authorities have yet to confirm whether legal action will be taken in connection with the protest.