Agartala, December 25, 2025:
Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Wednesday criticised the previous Left Front government, alleging that its failure to act decisively had allowed the drug menace to spread across the state.
Speaking at the Sansad Khel Mahotsav 2025 at the Dasarath Deb State Sports Complex in Badharghat, the Chief Minister said the issue had assumed serious proportions despite the former CPI(M)-led government being aware of the problem. He described the drug trade as part of a broader international network and claimed that no concrete steps were taken during the Left Front’s tenure to curb it.
“Despite having information, no effective action was initiated at that time,” Dr Saha said.
The Chief Minister asserted that since the BJP-led government assumed office, strict measures have been put in place to combat drug trafficking. He said the state has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drugs and is conducting regular enforcement drives and seizures to make Tripura drug-free.
“We are taking stringent action against drug smugglers and strengthening enforcement mechanisms to eliminate this menace,” he added.
Highlighting the importance of youth engagement, Dr Saha emphasised the role of sports in fostering discipline, confidence and positive values. He urged young people to actively participate in sports and called upon parents to encourage physical activities, noting their role in stress management and mental well-being.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for sports development, the Chief Minister mentioned the Prime Minister’s emphasis on promoting sports culture nationwide, including discussions on hosting major international sporting events in the future.
Dr Saha said platforms such as Sansad Khel Mahotsav play a vital role in nurturing sporting talent and supporting broader social efforts to steer youth away from drugs.
