School Renovation Scam? MLA Ranjit Debbarma Alleges ₹6 Lakh Misuse in Khowai

A political storm has erupted in Khowai district, Tripura, as 24-Ramchandraghat constituency MLA Ranjit Debbarma of the Tipra Motha Party has alleged massive irregularities in school renovation projects under the Samagra Shiksha scheme.

Debbarma claimed that although crores are being allocated for education reforms, the work executed is substandard, incomplete, and marred by corruption.

₹12 Lakh Allocation Reduced to ₹7.21 Lakh

According to official records cited by the MLA:

• Estimated fund: ₹12,00,000 for the renovation of two schools in Padmabil block

• Approved tender value: ₹7,21,080 (39.91% less than estimated)

• Assigned contractor: Sushanta Gopal from Charganki village

• Completion deadline: Two months

Debbarma alleged that the contractor spent only ₹1 lakh, leaving a huge portion of funds either unspent or siphoned off.

Complaints of Poor-Quality Work

Locals from the area have also complained that the renovation quality is extremely poor and unsustainable.

Debbarma stated that despite repeated attempts to contact Assistant Engineer Bijoy Debnath, he received no response.

The MLA has lodged a formal complaint with Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, the Khowai District Education Officer, and the engineering department.

MLA Demands Urgent Probe

In his letter, Ranjit Debbarma demanded:

• Formation of a special investigation team

• Inspection in the presence of the School Management Committee and himself

• Immediate review of fund utilization

He directly accused the authorities of “looting money in the name of renovation, which is against transparency in the education sector.”

Political Repercussions

Debbarma’s explosive allegations have already triggered heated political debates in Tripura. Opposition parties and locals are pressing for swift government action.

The next steps by the state government will determine whether this alleged ₹6 lakh scam escalates into a larger political and administrative controversy.