Rising cattle and motorcycle thefts in Teliamura raise concerns over policing, non-functional CCTV cameras, alleged check post irregularities, and public safety. Locals demand accountability, improved surveillance, and effective law enforcement to curb growing crime.
A sharp rise in cattle and motorcycle thefts across areas under the jurisdiction of Teliamura police station has sparked widespread concern among residents, raising serious questions about policing efficiency, surveillance gaps, and accountability at multiple levels.
The most recent incident was reported from the Pulinpura area along the Assam–Agartala National Highway, where two cattle were allegedly stolen from the cowshed of a local farmer and daily wage earner, Chandan Debnath. According to Debnath, he last checked his cattle around 3 am on Friday and later discovered that two animals were missing from the shed.
Debnath alleged that when he approached the police station to file a complaint, he was met with discouraging remarks. He claimed he was questioned about the absence of CCTV cameras at his residence, a response he described as insensitive and dismissive, especially given his limited financial means.
Local sources said further inquiries revealed deeper concerns. At the nearby Hawaibari naka point, several CCTV cameras were reportedly found to be non-functional. The check post has long been accused by residents of irregularities, including allegations that it is misused to facilitate theft and other illegal activities.
There are also allegations that vehicles, particularly those transporting cattle, are routinely charged unofficial fees ranging from Rs 200 to Rs 1,000 at the naka point. Residents claim that such practices may be enabling the smooth movement of stolen cattle and goods, although these allegations have not been officially confirmed.
Police sources acknowledged that the theft involving Debnath was not an isolated incident. In the past few weeks alone, nearly 25 cattle have reportedly been stolen from various locations within the Teliamura police station area. These repeated incidents have caused growing anxiety among villagers, many of whom depend on cattle rearing and agriculture for their livelihood.
The rising crime rate has also triggered political debate at the local level. Sections of the public have questioned the role of the ruling establishment, particularly in light of its frequent campaigns on cattle protection. Local sources alleged that some youth leaders associated with the ruling party in Teliamura and nearby Krishnapur areas are involved in cattle trade and trafficking, allegedly with local patronage. These claims, however, could not be independently verified.
Concerns extend beyond cattle theft to the overall security infrastructure in the region. Residents pointed out that CCTV cameras at the main gate of Teliamura police station have remained non-functional for years. Taking advantage of this lapse, a motorcycle belonging to an employee of the Teliamura electricity department was reportedly stolen from directly in front of the police station around a fortnight ago.
Earlier, on January 13, as many as five motorcycles were allegedly stolen in a single night from the Paush Sankranti fair at Chakmaghat. Despite the passage of several weeks, police have reportedly failed to trace any of the stolen vehicles, further eroding public confidence.
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The series of thefts has led to growing public scrutiny of the functioning of Teliamura police. Villagers and local leaders are now demanding stronger night patrols, functional CCTV surveillance at key points, accountability at check posts, and a more sensitive approach toward victims.
Residents warn that unless immediate corrective measures are taken, the situation could further deteriorate, putting livelihoods and public safety at serious risk.
