Bikramjoy Tripura, a resident of Vidya Kumar Roaja Para village in Tripura’s Dhalai district, has voted in every election, hoping that one day his village will get electricity, mobile connectivity, and a better road. However, despite the promises made by politicians during election campaigns, the village remains isolated and struggling with basic necessities.
Located around 62 kilometers from Ambassa, the district headquarters, Vidya Kumar Roaja Para village is accessible only by foot or by a treacherous road that turns into a “death trap” during the monsoon season. The village lacks electricity, mobile connectivity, and healthcare facilities, making it difficult for residents to access basic services.
“We all vote every time, but it remains a five-year ritual for us because it brings no solution to our problems,” said Bikramjoy, a 41-year-old farmer. “During monsoon, the village is cut off from the rest of the state, and we have to travel 10 to 20 kilometers on foot to collect ration.”
Chardene Tripura, an elderly woman from the village, echoed Bikramjoy’s concerns. “We have not seen our MLA for many months,” she said. “He only visits us when the election comes. We hope he will visit our village soon to seek votes.”
The village falls under the East Tripura Lok Sabha constituency, which will go to the polls on April 26. Sitting MP Rebati Tripura said he has taken up the connectivity issue of the villagers with the Centre several times but the road remains in poor condition.
Despite the challenges, residents of Vidya Kumar Roaja Para village remain hopeful that their lives will improve. They are eager for electricity, mobile connectivity, and a better road, but they are also aware that they have been promised these things before. As the Lok Sabha elections approach, they hope that this time, the promises will be kept.
