Tripura’s Panchayati Raj and Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman sparked controversy after a viral speech where he called the media one of the “enemies” of elected representatives, alongside party rivals and opposition. Speaking at a capacity-building workshop attended by CM Manik Saha, Barman highlighted the social, political, and administrative responsibilities of leaders, urging fair distribution of welfare schemes and criticizing past mismanagement. He stressed grassroots performance as key to electoral success and reminded that power is temporary, but honest work earns lasting respect. His comments drew criticism from journalists, with one editor calling the remarks arrogant.