On Monday afternoon, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a significant occasion by inaugurating the newly enhanced infrastructure and extensive beautification projects at the revered Tripura Sundari Temple complex. Located in Udaipur, Gomati district of Tripura, these vital developments were carried out under the PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive) scheme. During his visit, Prime Minister Modi also performed prayers at this ancient and sacred site, recognized as one of India’s 51 Shakti Peethas.
The Prime Minister’s visit saw him accompanied by prominent figures, including Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, former Chief Minister and MP Biplab Kumar Deb, and other senior leaders from the ruling BJP. Upon his arrival at Agartala’s MBB Airport, he proceeded to Udaipur by helicopter. At the airport, he was warmly welcomed by Rajya Sabha MP Rajib Bhattacharjee, Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder, Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, and DGP Anurag, while Governor Indrasena Reddy Nallu and Chief Minister Saha received him at the helipad located at the Palatana OTPC power plant in Udaipur.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister had been in Arunachal Pradesh, where he dedicated numerous multi-crore development projects to the public before arriving in Agartala.
Enhanced Security Measures for PM’s Visit
In anticipation of the Prime Minister’s high-profile visit, stringent security arrangements were put in place across West Tripura, Sepahijala, and Gomati districts. This included imposing restrictions on the movement of goods and heavy vehicles. Paramilitary forces were strategically deployed along the 12-kilometer stretch from the Palatana helipad to the temple complex in Udaipur, the district headquarters of Gomati. Despite the tight security, large crowds gathered along the route, eager to catch a glimpse of the Prime Minister.
Upon entering the temple complex, Prime Minister Modi first explored a photo exhibition gallery, offering him a detailed overview of the development and beautification work carried out under the PRASHAD scheme. Following this, he meticulously performed puja, adhering to the traditional rituals of the 523-year-old temple, originally founded by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya. A highlight of the ceremony was the vibrant presentation of traditional Kirtan by local tribal devotees, adding a unique cultural dimension to the spiritual event.
Interestingly, unlike his engagement in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, Prime Minister Modi did not deliver a public address during his Tripura visit. This marks his eleventh visit to the state since he took office as Prime Minister in 2014.
However, the event was not without controversy, as the opposition Congress party voiced strong objections. The party alleged that its leaders and MLAs were deliberately excluded from the temple development inauguration program. Ashish Kumar Saha, the State unit president of the Congress, criticized the BJP-led government’s conduct, describing their treatment of opposition parties as unprecedented.