Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Tuesday criticized certain Congress leaders, terming them as 'dramatists,' and said that they have entered politics solely for their personal gain.

Addressing state level workshop on IT and social media at Sahid Bhagar Singh Yuva Awas in Agartala, Dr Saha said that ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, IT and social media warriors have the most important roles to play in spreading the ideals of BJP to more people and promoting the message of public welfare work done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"All the Chief Ministers of the Northeast region acknowledge that we now feel that we are now included with the mainstream of India. Previous governments pursued a divide-and-rule strategy, neglecting this region. However, the Northeast has now progressed comprehensively”, he said.

Dr Saha said that while the CPIM had governed the state for more than 35 years, the BJP was in its nascent stages and had a long journey ahead. “We are fortunate to have the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as well as guardians like Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda. PM Modi has redefined politics, and our efforts align with his vision," Dr Saha said.

In an oblique reference to Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman, Dr Saha said, “A Congress leader said that old friends should return. I would advise them not to pay heed to such theatrical statements, as they hold no merit. Such individuals are akin to cockroaches, frequently switching parties for personal gains. They entered politics primarily for self-interest, not for the welfare of the people. The public lacks faith in them and will not be swayed. Their talent for drama is commendable; they could easily find employment in Mumbai.”

Dr Saha highlighted that the public had limited alternatives, with the Congress serving as the only alternative to the CPI(M).

“This is why some have aligned with the Congress. Unfortunately, the Congress is a party of unruly while the CPIM is a party of coercion, rigging and violence. The CPIM practices a use-and-discard approach to politics. The Emergency imposed during the Congress era and the CPIM's entire tenure were dark periods," he added.

During the program, BJP state president Rajib Bhattacharya, BJP general secretary Amit Rakshit, IT, and Social Media Northeast Coordinator Santanu Kalita, and others were present.