Health experts warn of an HIV outbreak risk as four unlicensed nomad tattoo stalls operate at Matabari Diwali Mela in Kalyan Dighi, Tripura. Authorities urged to act swiftly to shut down unsafe, unregulated tattoo services endangering public health.
A sudden health scare has emerged in the Kalyan Dighi area of Matabari, where four unlicensed tattoo stalls have reportedly opened during the Diwali Mela, alarming both local residents and medical experts. Health authorities have expressed grave concern that these unregulated tattoo services could potentially become hotspots for HIV transmission and other serious infections.
According to eyewitnesses, the makeshift stalls were set up on the northwest corner of Kalyan Dighi, operated by a group of nomadic tattoo artists from outside the district. These artists are allegedly working without any official license or medical clearance, raising fears that their tools and procedures might not meet basic hygiene or sterilization standards.
Local residents report that a steady flow of young people has been visiting these stalls for temporary and permanent tattoos, often drawn using reused needles and unhygienic ink containers. The alarming visuals have prompted public outcry and calls for immediate intervention from authorities.
Rising HIV Risk Sparks Panic
Tripura has already been facing a worrying rise in HIV-positive cases, particularly among the youth and migrant populations. Health experts now warn that such unregulated tattoo services could accelerate the spread of the virus, given the blood-to-blood contact nature of the process.
“Tattooing requires strict hygiene—new needles, sterilized equipment, and medically approved ink. In unlicensed setups like these, every tattoo made could carry the risk of HIV or Hepatitis B and C transmission,” said a senior medical officer from Gomati District Hospital, speaking on condition of anonymity.
He further explained that tattooing involves piercing the skin repeatedly with needles, and if those needles are contaminated with infected blood, it becomes a direct route for transmission. Without proper medical supervision, even one infected client could trigger a mini-epidemic in the local community.
Experts Call for Immediate Government Action
Health professionals and social activists have urged both the Mandir authority and the Gomati District Administration to take urgent preventive measures. The primary demand includes the immediate shutdown and removal of these nomad-operated tattoo stalls from the fairgrounds.
Dr. Sukanya Nath, a public health expert based in Udaipur, said, “While Diwali Mela brings joy and cultural vibrancy, it must not compromise public health. Authorities should immediately deploy inspection teams, seal these illegal tattoo booths, and conduct HIV awareness and testing drives around the area.”
She emphasized that the issue is not about art or tradition but about health safety and accountability. “Tattooing is a medical-grade procedure and requires sterilized equipment, training, and licensing. Without that, it’s nothing short of a public health hazard,” she added.
Legal and Administrative Loopholes Under Scrutiny
Sources suggest that the tattoo stalls were allowed to operate due to administrative oversight during the fair’s setup phase. Although Diwali Melas are traditionally regulated under local municipal and health safety norms, the nomadic artists may have bypassed the system by presenting themselves as temporary craft vendors.
Officials from the Gomati District Administration have reportedly been informed, but no official statement or action has been confirmed as of press time.
If the allegations prove true, the state could be looking at a serious breach of health safety law, including violations of the Tattoo and Body Art Regulation Guidelines and the Tripura Public Health Act.
Community Appeals for Awareness
Meanwhile, community health volunteers have started urging fair visitors to avoid getting tattoos from unverified sources, warning that aesthetic appeal should not come at the cost of health. Local youth clubs have also begun sharing awareness messages through loudspeakers and pamphlets near the temple premises.
As the festival continues, public vigilance remains the strongest defense against potential health disasters. Residents are calling for the swift removal of these illegal stalls and tighter regulation for future events.
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The situation remains tense as authorities weigh public safety against festive freedom. Until an official order is issued, the unlicensed tattoo services continue to operate, leaving the public exposed to avoidable health dangers during what should be a season of celebration.
