Daijiworld Media Network - Agartala
Agartala, Jan 10: Prohibitory orders were enforced and a large security presence deployed in the Kumarghat subdivision of Tripura’s Unakoti district on Saturday after violent clashes erupted between two communities over the collection of subscriptions for a local fair. The unrest left at least five to six people injured and several houses gutted, officials said.
As a precaution, internet services have been suspended across the Kumarghat subdivision for 48 hours, and eight individuals have been detained in connection with the incident. The Superintendent of Police (SP), Unakoti district, cited the sudden law-and-order situation in the Fatikroy police station area as the reason for the shutdown, stating it would help prevent the spread of false information and maintain control.
Authorities said the trouble began when a group of youths stopped a timber-laden vehicle in Saidarpar under Fatikroy police limits, demanding a contribution for the community fair. The dispute escalated after a minority family in Shimultala reportedly refused to pay, prompting a mob to gather, set fire to properties—including a timber shop—and vandalise a place of worship.
In response, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Kumarghat invoked Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, to prevent further escalation. Acting SP Avinash Rai, along with District Magistrate Tamal Majumder and senior officials, visited the affected areas to review security arrangements. Rai said that police forces were immediately dispatched to disperse the crowd, and flag marches would continue to ensure stability.
A detailed assessment of the damage is being carried out by district administration officials. Police and paramilitary forces have maintained heightened vigilance, and authorities urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours.
State political leaders, including BJP President Rajib Bhattacharjee, Congress president Ashis Kumar Saha, and CPI(M) state secretary and Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury, condemned the violence and appealed for peace.