The Congress launched a strong attack on the BJP on Tuesday, accusing it of orchestrating recent violence in Tripura and labeling it as “state-sponsored terrorism.” In anticipation of the upcoming panchayat polls, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge appointed Lok Sabha members Tariq Anwar and Gaurav Gogoi as AICC Observers to assess the situation in Tripura, following reports of violence and attacks on Congress workers and offices by the ruling party.
At a press conference held at the party headquarters, Congress leader Ajoy Kumar described BJP cadres as “congenital rioters,” asserting that Congress workers are enduring continuous and unjust violence in Tripura ahead of the panchayat polls. Kumar alleged that the ruling party in Tripura is ignoring these atrocities, highlighting over 1,000 incidents of violence and electoral violations during the recent Lok Sabha elections, which he claimed disregarded all democratic norms. Drawing a parallel to the situation in Manipur, Kumar noted that Tripura appears to be following a similarly troubling path, with increasing political intimidation and violence against opposition members as the panchayat polls approach.
The Congress had previously condemned the BJP on Monday for the violence in Tripura following the panchayat poll announcement, accusing the ruling party of “murdering democracy” in broad daylight. Congress general secretary in-charge of communications Jairam Ramesh called the violence “real Samvidhan Hatya,” describing it as an assault on the Constitution of India—its principles, values, provisions, and institutions.
AICC national secretary Szarita Laitphlang echoed these sentiments, claiming that individuals affiliated with the BJP have embarked on a campaign of intimidation, murders, and violence against dedicated Congress workers and their allies. The panchayat polls in Tripura are scheduled for August 8, with the counting of votes set to take place on August 10.
