Agartala, Feb 12. A group of journalists from Tripura on Wednesday lodged a formal complaint with the Director General of Police (DGP), Tripura, seeking immediate legal action against MLA Ranjit Debbarma for allegedly issuing threats through a video circulated on social media.
In the complaint, the journalists stated that the video, released on February 10, 2026, contains direct threats and provocative remarks aimed at members of the media fraternity. They alleged that the MLA, accompanied by two unidentified individuals, made aggressive gestures and openly dared journalists to confront him. The complainants expressed concern that the content of the video has created fear and insecurity among media professionals across the state.
The complaint further urged the police to register a formal case under relevant legal provisions, ensure adequate security for the journalists concerned, and take necessary steps to prevent the circulation of any further content that could incite or threaten media personnel.
The latest development follows a state-wide protest held on February 9, 2026, in which nearly 800 journalists and media workers participated. During the demonstration, an 11-point charter of demands was submitted, condemning alleged threats against journalists and raising concerns over what they described as harassment, including the initiation of a privilege motion by another MLA.
According to the complaint, the controversy dates back several months when allegations relating to insurgent links and possession of documents surfaced against the MLA in media reports. Although the MLA had denied the allegations and his response was carried by news outlets, journalists claimed that tensions persisted, leading to repeated verbal attacks on social media.
Describing the matter as serious and alarming, the complainants urged the DGP to take swift action to ensure the safety and security of media professionals and to uphold the freedom of the press.
