In the face of scorching temperatures, a remarkable 80 percent of the 1.4 million eligible voters exercised their democratic rights in the Tripura East Lok Sabha constituency, held under tight security on Friday. This remarkable turnout occurred amidst stringent security measures to ensure a peaceful voting process in this tribal reserve parliamentary constituency.
A notable incident occurred in the tribal-dominated Raima Valley, where approximately 1,050 voters initially boycotted the election due to poor road conditions and inadequate water supply. However, after intervention from senior officials, they relented and participated in the electoral process
Moreover, residents residing near the India-Bangladesh border, particularly in Kailashahar, seized the opportunity to cast their votes after the Border Security Force (BSF) facilitated access by opening border gates.
In an unfortunate incident, a swarm of bees disrupted polling in the Barabill area of Khowai district, resulting in injuries to 15 voters, including women. Prompt response from Fire and Emergency Service personnel ensured swift medical attention, with affected individuals receiving treatment at Khowai district hospital before returning home.
In a rare occurrence, a polling official, Mousumi Ghosh, stationed in the Surma Assembly segment, faced suspension for allegedly making inappropriate remarks involving a prominent political figure. However, the suspension order was rescinded later in the day
Despite these challenges, the electoral process witnessed active participation from various segments of society, including the Reang tribal community. Over 16,000 Reang voters, recently resettled in Tripura after displacement from neighboring Mizoram due to ethnic unrest, turned out in significant numbers to cast their ballots.
The contest for the Tripura East Lok Sabha seat primarily revolves around two key contenders: Kriti Devi Debbarman of the BJP and Rajendra Reang of the CPI-M. This politically crucial constituency, reserved for tribal representation, holds significance in shaping the region’s political landscape.
The Tripura West constituency had previously gone to the polls, recording a turnout of approximately 82 percent, while a by-election for the Ramnagar Assembly seat was also conducted concurrently.
