Tripura, 03 Feb 2026: Serious allegations of administrative negligence and disrespect toward journalists have surfaced following the ‘DM Janata Darbar’ held on Tuesday near the Chakmaghat Barrage area under the Krishnapur Assembly constituency in Khowai district. The programme was organised under the initiative of the District Magistrate, with overall arrangements handled by the Teliamura Sub-Divisional Administration.
Despite journalists being formally invited by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Apurba Krishna Chakraborty, they were met with an embarrassing and disorganised situation at the venue. Upon reaching the stage area, journalists found that no seating arrangements had been made for them, forcing media personnel to sit on the ground while collecting news and covering the programme.
Adding to the controversy, it is alleged that a government employee from the District Magistrate’s office, identified as Ratan Koloi, attempted to drive away journalists who were engaged in reporting. This further disrupted their work and intensified the sense of humiliation.
What has drawn the sharpest criticism is that senior officials, including the District Magistrate and the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, remained seated on the dais and chose to stay silent despite witnessing the journalists’ plight. No effort was reportedly made by the authorities to address or rectify the situation.
The incident has sparked outrage among journalists, who view the episode as a direct affront to the media, often described as the fourth pillar of democracy. Ironically, at a forum meant to hear public grievances, the very people responsible for conveying those issues to the public were subjected to neglect.
Members of the general public attending the Janata Darbar also faced difficulties. With no proper shade or shelter, many had to stand under the scorching sun to access services. An elderly woman from the Maharani Pur area told the media that the situation caused significant hardship for people like her.
The incident has raised serious questions about the administration’s sense of responsibility and respect for democratic institutions. It now remains to be seen whether the authorities will take accountability for the mismanagement or attempt to downplay the issue, as the episode has undeniably tarnished the administration’s public image.
