Defying a nationwide general strike called by central trade unions, Tripura residents chose to prioritize their livelihood over political protest, keeping life running almost normally across the state. The strike, which had been planned and promoted by Left-backed labour outfits for over a month, failed to garner mass support in the state, particularly in the capital Agartala. Shops, offices, educational institutions, and government establishments across Agartala remained open on Wednesday. Although vehicular movement was slightly reduced, there were no significant disruptions reported throughout the day.
“We have families to feed and we have to work. If we sit at home, it won’t help anyone,” said a local auto driver, explaining why he decided to keep working despite the strike. Another shopkeeper in the city echoed the same sentiment: “If I don’t open my shop, how will my family eat?” While some long-distance buses from key inter-state terminals such as Nagerjala, Radhanagar, and Chandrapur began service in the morning, many had to return midway due to a lack of passengers. However, the absence of forced shutdowns or large-scale demonstrations meant commuters and workers were largely free to move as they pleased. West Tripura Superintendent of Police Kiran Kumar confirmed that the strike passed off peacefully. “The situation remained calm throughout the day. Adequate security, including the deployment of CRPF, Tripura State Rifles, and local police, ensured law and order was maintained,” he said.
Eyewitnesses observed that a few businesses voluntarily shut their doors in solidarity with the strike, but these were the exception rather than the rule. Most workers, especially those from the informal sector, cited economic necessity as the reason for continuing their daily routines. In a state where daily wages and small businesses sustain thousands of families, the lack of participation in the bandh appeared to be less a political statement and more a reflection of everyday realities. As one resident put it bluntly, “Politics won’t feed our children—work will.”
