Tripura Minister Initiates Defamation Case Against Party MLA

In a significant political development in Tripura, Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma has initiated a defamation lawsuit against fellow Tipra Motha Party MLA Ranjit Debbarma. The suit arises from allegations of false and derogatory remarks made during the recent TTAADC election campaigns. The minister's legal counsel has stated that the accusations regarding property purchases and inappropriate conduct are entirely unfounded. The case is set to be heard in court on April 30, while Ranjit Debbarma maintains that he did not name any minister in his speeches. This unfolding situation highlights the tensions within the party as both members navigate the political landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 14, 2026, 12:29 IST

Defamation Suit Filed by Tripura Forest Minister

A file image of Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma. (Photo:X)

Agartala, Apr 14: Animesh Debbarma, the Forest Minister of Tripura, has lodged a defamation lawsuit against Ranjit Debbarma, an MLA from the Tipra Motha Party, for allegedly making "false and derogatory" statements about him.

The legal action was filed in the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court located in West Tripura, as confirmed by the minister's legal representative on Tuesday.

Interestingly, both individuals are members of the Tipra Motha Party.

In his petition, the Forest Minister accused Ranjit Debbarma of making disparaging comments during the election campaigns for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC).

According to the allegations, the MLA claimed that Animesh Debbarma had acquired "two flats and a plot" and was in discussions to purchase a flat in Delhi, as stated by the minister's lawyer.

"These allegations are completely unfounded," asserted Sankar Lodh, the counsel for Animesh Debbarma.

Additionally, the MLA accused the minister of using forest bungalows for parties with women, a claim that Lodh described as baseless.

The CJM court is scheduled to hear the defamation case on April 30, according to Lodh.

When reached for comment, Ranjit Debbarma denied naming any minister in his campaign speeches on March 29 and April 9, as referenced in the lawsuit.

"I did not mention any minister's name in my speeches. I will provide a statement to clarify my position once the defamation notice is received," he stated.