Agartala, Feb 21 (NationPress) Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha criticized the former Left Front administration on Saturday, claiming that it neglected the working class and fostered a divide between employers and employees. In contrast, he emphasized that the current BJP government is committed to promoting inclusive development.

During the unveiling of a bust of Syama Prasad Mukherjee at the Nagerjala Bus stand, the Chief Minister highlighted that in just one year, the state has seen the launch of development projects totaling Rs 1,500 crore, reflecting the government's focus on development.

He pointed out that the Nagerjala bus stand, a key transport hub in Agartala, was previously in disrepair. Under BJP governance, it has been renovated. The prior (CPI-M) administration, according to CM Saha, overlooked the needs of workers, bus drivers, and passengers, lacking even basic passenger amenities. Their priority was mobilizing people for rallies during their 35-year rule.

The Chief Minister stated that the current BJP administration is improving bus stands statewide, with new projects for several bus termini already underway.

Reflecting on the legacy of Syama Prasad Mukherjee, he said Mukherjee dedicated his life to national integrity and unity. "To truly honor him, this bus stand should carry his name. He was a learned individual, became Vice-Chancellor of the then University of Calcutta at a young age, held ministerial positions, resigned in protest against the Nehru–Liaquat Pact, and later founded the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951. He devoted himself to promoting national unity," stated CM Saha.

He accused previous communist and socialist regimes of creating discord among laborers and business owners.

"They employed a divide-and-rule strategy. Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocates for 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Sabka Prayas'. Unity is vital for both state and national progress," he asserted.

Furthermore, CM Saha noted that Tripura has successfully produced 1.08 lakh 'Lakhpati Didis', achieving approximately 95% of its goal.

"Our aim is not only to make women lakhpatis but also entrepreneurs. Dedication is the only way to achieve growth," he emphasized.

On infrastructure developments, the Chief Minister announced that National Highway-8, previously the state's sole national highway, will be widened to four lanes from Chandrapur near Agartala to Churaibari along Assam.

"The same highway will also undergo four-laning in southern Tripura, with the DPR (Detailed Project Report) already finished. Work on the ring road has commenced. Our government is committed to transparency and development," he concluded.