Agartala, September 16: Tripura Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury has questioned the functioning of the state government’s “zero tolerance” policy on corruption while also alleging that media organisations reporting on public grievances are facing pressure.
Chaudhury said the media’s role in a democracy was to place facts before the public and question decisions affecting people. He described the press as the “fourth pillar of democracy” and stressed that its independence should be protected.
His remarks came amid reports of several YouTube channels, Facebook pages and cable networks being allegedly suspended or disconnected in recent days.
The Opposition leader alleged that media outlets highlighting problems in public services had faced action. He cited issues including damaged roads, irregular electricity supply and shortages of essential ration commodities such as rice, pulses and sugar.
Chaudhury also referred to employment-related concerns, alleging that recruitment notifications had been issued repeatedly without corresponding appointments. He further pointed to delays in issuing appointment letters after TET and TRBT examinations.
According to Chaudhury, the alleged disconnection of cable channels was particularly concerning as it could restrict the ability of media organisations to reach audiences and disseminate information.
He also alleged that newspapers were being pressured through the withholding of government advertisements. Chaudhury maintained that the media should not operate merely as supporters of the government or as platforms for the Opposition, but should independently report facts and matters concerning the public interest.
On corruption, Chaudhury questioned whether the government’s stated “zero tolerance” approach was being effectively implemented. He alleged that irregularities continued in departments including the Public Works Department, Health and Police.
The Opposition leader further claimed that such alleged practices were not confined to a particular level of administration, but involved different layers of the system.
Chaudhury said the allegations had wider implications for governance and public confidence in institutions.
His statements have brought media independence, government accountability and the reporting of public grievances back into the political discourse in Tripura.
