Hat Trick: Biplab Kumar Deb Makes Another Controversial Remark

Tripura Chief Minister (CM) Biplab Kumar Deb has stated that civil engineers are better suited to serve in civil services than mechanical engineers. With this statement, the CM has waded into a new controversy, his third, since he took office earlier this year.

Deb was speaking at an event at the Prajna Bhavan, Agartala. He said, "After pursuing mechanical engineering, one should not go for civil services. Instead, civil engineers should join civil services as they have the knowledge and experience to help build administration and society.”

Deb had recently said that internet and satellite were not something new and existed since the Mahabharata era. Then, he remarked that Miss World 1997 Diana Hayden was was not worthy of the crown.

Hayden hit back. She said, "I am fighting this brown skin bias since my childhood. And I have succeeded. People should be proud of my achievement, rather than belittling it. I am a proud brown-skinned Indian. I am hurt. The minister is in a prominent position and he should be careful about what he says.”

Deb had regretted his comment later.

Deb's comments, three now, have come days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned the BJP leaders to not make irresponsible statements and advised them to steer clear of controversies.