Intense communal tension erupted in Kadamtala in North Tripura on Sunday. While at least one persons was reportedly killed in police firing, several others were injured –including policemen. Reports reaching here said situation continues to remain extremely explosive though adequate security arrangemements were made.
The confrontation between the two communities –Hindus and Muslims- began over a disagreement regarding the collection of puja subscriptions. The unrest prompted police intervention involving both lathi charges and the firing . One person, identified as -Sultan Ahmed was shot dead by police when he resorted to violence and arson. Several others sustained injuries during the conflict, adding to the gravity of the situation.
The tension ignited when members of the Indian Club allegedly misbehaved with a group of minority individuals who were traveling through the Hapitila area. The group was stopped and asked to make a donation for Durga Puja, which they declined at the time, stating they would contribute after their return from the hospital. The vehicle was driven by Jahar Mia, a resident of Lalcherra’s Ichairpar area, who was traveling with relatives for medical reasons. When Mia refused to make an immediate donation, the club members reportedly assaulted him. The police detained one suspect involved in the alleged assault on Mia, but tensions continued to rise.
As news of the assault spread, hundreds of members of the minority community gathered outside the Kadamtala police station, demanding action. The protest soon escalated, with the crowd–over thousands of minority community – gaining control of the local market, forcing businesses to close. The agitated mob ransacked shops and vehicles, prompting shopkeepers to flee the scene and then they resortde to arson.
Local authorities, including SP North Bhanupada Chakraborty and Addl. SP J. Darlong, arrived at the scene with additional forces in an attempt to restore order. The situation worsened when police resorted to a lathi charge, resulting in several injuries among the shopkeepers and bystanders. Despite this, the mob continued its aggressive behavior, attacking houses and vehicles in the area.
Amid growing concern over the unrest, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha issued strict instructions for the police to take immediate action. Two Inspector Generals of Police, Carey Marak and GS Rao, were dispatched to the area to oversee the situation. As the violence escalated, police were forced to fire blank shots to disperse the crowd. By evening, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNS Act were imposed, and significant reinforcements were sent to Kadamtala, including members of the Tripura State Rifles (TSR).
Despite these measures, the situation remains highly volatile. Attacks on homes and shops continue to be reported, with many residents fearing further violence. Security has been tightened, and the Chief Minister, along with senior officials, is closely monitoring the situation. However, tensions persist in Kadamtala, leaving the area on edge.
