Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha today said that just as humans and trees are interdependent, the opposition and the treasury bench in the Assembly also rely on each other and work in a symbiotic manner to ensure a healthy democratic ecosystem.

Dr. Saha made the remarks while addressing a ceremonial programme at the Tripura Legislative Assembly, commemorating the establishment of the Tripura Legislative Assembly and its relocation from the Ujjayanta Palace to its present premises.

“This is the first time such a programme is being held—something that has never happened before,” the Chief Minister said.

He noted that the Tripura Legislative Assembly was established on July 1, 1963, and that it has now completed 62 years.
“Numerous issues concerning public welfare have been raised in the Assembly over the years. All 60 MLAs, representing 60 constituencies, carry significant responsibilities. The opposition raises concerns to safeguard democracy, and we try to respond accordingly. It is essential to maintain the decorum of the House. Officials also play a crucial role in the functioning of the Assembly. The Assembly is like a temple of democracy, and we must observe this day with due reverence,” he said.

Dr. Saha proposed that from next year onwards, former Chief Ministers and ex-Speakers who are still alive should be invited to the event.

He also recalled that Late Upendra Kumar Roy was the first Speaker of the Tripura Legislative Assembly, serving from July 1, 1963, to July 11, 1967, during the tenure of Chief Minister Sachindra Lal Singha.

“July 22, 2011, marked a historic milestone in the journey of the Assembly, when it was relocated from the Ujjayanta Palace premises to its current complex. On this special day, we reflected on the Assembly’s glorious history and also participated in a tree plantation drive within the Assembly premises,” he added.

To mark the occasion, the Chief Minister planted a sapling on the Assembly campus.

He emphasised the importance of environmental conservation, saying, “Tree plantation is a commendable initiative. We cannot survive without trees. Nature teaches us that all beings are interdependent. Public representatives must actively work to protect the environment. Trees are vital—as one mature tree produces about 260 pounds of oxygen annually. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed the goal of making India carbon neutral, and we must work towards that vision.”

“Tree plantation should be done with long-term planning and strategic placement. Just like humans and trees are mutually dependent, a similar symbiotic relationship exists between the opposition and the treasury bench in the Assembly. Nature offers many lessons,” he said.

Speaker Biswabandhu Sen, Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul, Chief Whip Kalyani Saha Roy, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ratan Lal Nath, Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury, Congress MLA Birajit Sinha, and other dignitaries were present during the event.