Agartala: Former chief minister Manik Sarkar on Wednesday criticised the blockades against him in different parts of the state during his tour and said the incidents were "attacks on democracy".

At a news conference here on Wednesday evening, Sarkar, who was chief minister from 1998 till March this year, said he visited several parts of the state to interact with common people, who he claimed, were facing problems.

During a few of these tours, he was halted by a few youths who raised "Go back Manik Sarkar" slogans.

On June 12, he faced "Go back" slogans during a visit to Gandacherra in Dhalai district, 112km from here. He faced similar slogans at Chailengta in Longtrai valley district, 107km from here on Wednesday.

"I have seen a few youths raising these slogans. They don't realise what they are doing. They are being used by political party leaders. I hope they will gradually understand," Sarkar said.

Referring to chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb's speech in the Assembly session held in March, Sarkar said, "Those in power said in the legislative Assembly that they would work in cooperation with everyone, including political parties. We have assured them that we shall play a constructive role. We went to talk with the people. But these blockade are not the right steps."

He urged the state government to work as a guardian of all people, irrespective of political colour.

Sarkar was scheduled to visit Kanchanpur in North Tripura district on Thursday. In the face of repeated resistance, his visit was cancelled.