Tripura CM not using red beacon lights since 1998, opposition questions why this campaign about simple life style

GUWAHATI: While NDA government has banned ministers and senior officials from using red beacons on their cars from May 1 onwards, Tripura chief minister Manik Sarkar has not been using the same ever since he took over as chief ministership in 1998.

BJP recently launched tirade on the life style of Sarkar alleging that simple and clean life style image of chief minister, Manik Sarkar is nothing but a hype and gimmick.

Senior CPIM leader Gautam Das told ET, “While NDA government has launched crackdown on red beacon light now, Manik Sarkar has decided not to use the same since he took over chief mister ship in 1998.”

He said, “Now that union cabinet has decided other ministers if using the same will follow the new rules but in Tripura chief minister has an example of simple living. Sarkar unlike many other chief ministers never used a long convoy of vehicles.”

Das added, “Sarkar is the only chief minister in the country who had given up red beacon lights long ago.” Left Front is ruling Tripura for last 24 years.

Recently in social media a local unit of CPI (M) posted that Sarkar donates his entire salary and perks to the party and manages his life with Rs 5000 per month given by the party.

Sarkar is seen travelling in train. The post added, “Sarkar walks down to Secretariat.”

The opposition including BJP questioned if this was a campaign launched by Marxist for it is threatened by the massive inroads of BJP ahead of 2018 assembly polls.

Mrinal Kanti Deb, spokesperson of Tripura BJP unit said that simple life style of Sarkar is nothing but illusion. “While chief minister shows that he travels by train in reality Sarkar uses chopper to travel 80 km distance in Tripura."

Deb said, “Sarkar has dual image, one within Tripura and one outside. The fact he donates to party is protocol of his party and not exclusive to him. This is nothing but gimmick.”

Das said, “We have nothing to be worried about, we enjoy the popularity. It is too early to talk about the number of seats we will win in 2018 assembly polls.”