Bishalgarh, Tripura:
Residents of East Laxmibil under Laxmibil Gram Panchayat have been facing consistent inconvenience due to the irregular operations of their local fair price shop. Despite the scheduled opening time being 7 AM, the ration dealer, Baby Debnath, and her husband Sudhanshu Debnath, often arrive late—frequently after 8 AM.
The situation escalated on Tuesday when consumers, waiting for hours, found no sign of the dealer. Upon calling, they were informed that the appointed helper was unwell, hence the shop would remain closed. Agitated locals expressed anger over what they called a “trivial excuse” and alleged that such negligence has become a regular occurrence.
Residents claim the couple regularly shuts the shop citing personal or staff health issues. Sudhanshu Debnath, once a staunch left-wing leader, is now identified with the BJP after a political shift—raising concerns among locals about politicisation and mismanagement of essential services.
One disgruntled consumer said, “We’re tired of sitting here like pilgrims, waiting endlessly. This has been happening for years—someone must hold them accountable.”
