Tripura sees big drop in crime, says CM Manik Saha

Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Friday said the state has made remarkable progress in law and order, with a sharp decline in overall crime rates and a record increase in drug seizures. He credited the relentless efforts of the police and security agencies for the achievements, noting that Tripura is now emerging as one of the safer states in the country.

Speaking after hoisting the national flag at the Assam Rifles Ground in Agartala during the 79th Independence Day celebrations, Saha highlighted that the state recorded 19.4 per cent fewer crimes in 2024 compared to 2023, while the first five months of 2025 showed a further 12.35 per cent drop compared to the previous year.

“On an average, Tripura registers 110 cases per one lakh population, while the national average stands at 422. This reflects the effectiveness of our law enforcement agencies and their growing efficiency in maintaining peace and order,” the Chief Minister said.

A major highlight of his address was the state’s intensified crackdown on narcotics. According to Saha, there was a 106 per cent rise in seizures of drugs and narcotic substances in 2024 compared to 2023, alongside a 132 per cent increase in drug destruction operations. “This shows our firm stand against the drug menace. Tripura cannot afford to allow narcotics to damage the future of its youth,” he declared.

The Chief Minister also underlined the role of the Tripura Police in guarding the sensitive international border with Bangladesh. “Our police have been working as the second line of defence after the BSF. They are not only preventing illegal entry but also taking strict action against those who aid infiltration,” he said.

Beyond law and order, Saha spoke on the government’s development agenda. Tourism, he said, is receiving a big push with the Asian Development Bank supporting facelift projects worth ₹179.72 crore at Kasba Kalibari, Chaturdash Devta Temple, Chhibimura, Amar Sagar, and Fatik Sagar. “These projects will attract more visitors and boost the local economy,” he added.

On employment, Saha said that the government has filled 19,765 regular posts across departments since 2018 and held 23 job fairs in the past year, creating opportunities for thousands of young people.

Tribal welfare, another key priority, is being addressed through externally aided projects. The Chief Minister announced that a World Bank-backed project worth ₹1,400 crore is underway to uplift the socio-economic condition of Tripura’s tribal population. “Our aim is inclusive growth where no community feels left behind,” he said.

By Banasree Sarkar