Tensions escalated in Salema under Kamalpur Sub-division of Dhalai district on Thursday as violence erupted during a 24-hour Tripura bandh called by the Tripura Civil Society. Several people, including Block Development Officer Abhijit Majumder and engineer Animesh Saha, sustained injuries in the clashes. The bandh, demanding implementation of the Inner Line Permit, detection and deportation of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, and enforcement of the Tiprasa Accord, turned chaotic when protesters confronted shopkeepers who had opened their businesses.
A senior police official said that supporters enforcing the shutdown entered Shantir Bazar market, demanding shops close. Traders’ resistance led to confrontations, after which protesters returned in larger numbers, looting shops and setting some on fire amid limited police presence. In response, Dhalai District Magistrate Vivek H. B. imposed Section 163 of the BNSS in Kamalpur Sub-division, restricting movement to prevent further harm to people and property and to maintain peace.
A large contingent of Tripura State Rifles, led by DIG Rati Ranjan Debnath, was deployed, and authorities reported that the situation is now under control. Tripura Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha condemned the violence, stating, “We strongly condemn the violent attack on BDO Abhijit Majumder, Engineer Animesh Saha, and residents of Shantir Bazar. Such acts of violence are unacceptable. The administration has been directed to take swift and strict action against those responsible.”
