Strict security imposed for Dharmanagar by-election vote counting on May 4, ensuring peaceful results amid political tension, high voter turnout, opposition allegations, and strong administrative measures under BNSS to maintain law and order in Tripura.
Tight security measures have been put in place in North Tripura as authorities prepare for the counting of votes in the Dharmanagar Assembly by-election, scheduled for May 4. The administration has imposed strict prohibitory orders to ensure a peaceful and transparent counting process amid heightened political attention surrounding the results.
According to official directives issued by District Election Officer and Magistrate Chandni Chandran, IAS, restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 will come into force from 6:00 AM on the day of counting and remain effective until the entire process concludes. The order prohibits public gatherings, unauthorized movement of vehicles, carrying of arms, and any activity that could potentially disrupt law and order within a 100-metre radius of the designated counting centre.
The counting of votes will take place at PM SHRI Dharmanagar Government Girls Higher Secondary School starting at 8:00 AM. Authorities have emphasized that these precautionary measures are necessary to maintain discipline and prevent any untoward incidents during the high-stakes exercise. Only authorized personnel, including election officials, security forces, magistrates, and emergency service providers, will be allowed access to the restricted zone.
Officials have also ensured widespread awareness of the restrictions through loudspeaker announcements and coordination with local media outlets. Copies of the order have been circulated among key departments, including the Election Commission of Tripura, the Home Department, and the office of the Superintendent of Police. Any violation of the imposed restrictions will attract strict legal action under Section 223 of the BNSS, 2023.
The Dharmanagar by-election has drawn significant political interest, particularly as the counting coincides with assembly election results in five states. The constituency witnessed a strong voter turnout of 80.04 percent during polling held on April 9, reflecting active public participation in the democratic process.
However, the election was not without controversy. Opposition parties, including Congress and CPI(M), raised allegations of irregularities, voter intimidation, and removal of polling agents from booths. Congress candidate Chayan Bhattacharjee questioned a late surge in voter turnout, while CPI(M) candidate Amitabha Dutta alleged inadequate security arrangements. On the other hand, BJP candidate Jahar Chakraborty expressed confidence in victory, describing the election as peaceful and orderly.
A total of 46,142 voters, including 23,758 women, were eligible to cast their votes across 55 polling booths. The electoral contest features six candidates representing major political parties such as BJP, Congress, and the CPI(M)-led Left Front, along with regional parties and an independent contender.
| Also Read: Women lead bold raid on illegal liquor hub in Pandabpur |
The by-election was necessitated following the demise of sitting MLA and Assembly Speaker Biswa Bandhu Sen in December 2025. With political stakes high and public scrutiny intense, the administration’s proactive approach to enforcing strict security protocols is being viewed as crucial in ensuring the credibility and smooth conduct of the counting process.
As the region awaits the results, authorities remain focused on maintaining law and order, reinforcing public confidence in the electoral system.
