Tripura CM Manik Saha condemned the reported political violence in Khayerpur and Kamalpur ahead of the urban local body elections, calling for impartial investigations and warning that anyone found involved, including BJP members, would face legal action.
Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha has strongly condemned the reported incidents of political violence in Khayerpur and Kamalpur ahead of the upcoming Urban Local Body (ULB) elections, warning that anyone found involved in unlawful activities would face legal action irrespective of political affiliation.
Speaking to reporters in Agartala, the Chief Minister called for thorough and impartial investigations into both incidents, stating that political violence and obstruction of democratic activities could not be justified under any circumstances. He also made it clear that the BJP would not provide protection to any party member found responsible for such activities.
Referring to the Khayerpur incident, Saha said he had come across reports about the matter and considered the allegations serious. He stressed that if any wrongdoing had occurred, the authorities should investigate the incident properly and take appropriate action according to the law.
The Chief Minister also expressed concern over the reported incident in Kamalpur, where allegations of an attack on opposition leaders and supporters have emerged. He said that all relevant information would have to be collected before taking further steps and reiterated the need for an impartial inquiry.
Emphasising the ruling party’s position, Saha stated that even if individuals associated with the BJP were found involved in violence or political intimidation, they would not be spared. He maintained that legal action should be determined by the findings of the investigation rather than political considerations.
The Chief Minister’s remarks came amid allegations that five CPI(M) leaders and supporters were attacked in Kamalpur while proceeding to submit nomination papers for the municipal elections. The Left Front has accused BJP workers of being involved in the incident. Among those reportedly injured were CITU sub-divisional secretary Debashish Das and party worker Sunil Debbarma. The allegations are subject to investigation.
In a separate incident in Khayerpur, a BJP worker was reportedly targeted in a firing incident on Thursday evening. Police subsequently arrested Congress leader Baptu Chakraborty in connection with the case and initiated an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Saha also addressed allegations that opposition candidates were facing obstacles while submitting nomination papers for the upcoming civic elections. Referring to complaints concerning different areas, including Ramnagar, he said opposition parties had every democratic right to raise concerns and demand investigations.
According to the Chief Minister, BJP workers had been instructed not to prevent opposition candidates from filing their nomination papers or obstruct their election-related activities. He reiterated that every eligible candidate should be allowed to exercise their democratic rights without intimidation or interference.
The Chief Minister further urged political workers not to repeat practices they had criticised in the past. He said that alleged wrongdoing by political opponents could not become a justification for similar actions. Instead, all parties and their supporters should demonstrate restraint and maintain democratic standards during the election process.
Meanwhile, the BJP held an organisational meeting at its state headquarters in Agartala on Saturday. Saha attended the meeting along with other party office-bearers. He said the meeting was organised following an initiative by the newly appointed state in-charge and suggestions from the party’s central leadership.
Discussions focused on strengthening organisational coordination and reviewing preparations for the forthcoming elections to the Agartala Municipal Corporation, other municipal bodies and Nagar Panchayats across Tripura.
The BJP has yet to formally announce its final candidate list for the civic elections, as the selection process is awaiting approval from the central leadership.
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With political parties intensifying their preparations and opposition groups raising concerns over nomination-related obstacles, the incidents in Khayerpur and Kamalpur have added to the political debate ahead of the municipal polls.
Reiterating his position, Chief Minister Manik Saha said that allegations of political violence must be investigated fairly and that anyone found guilty would face action under the law, regardless of party identity or position.
