CPI(M) urges Tripura Govt to address communal violence and aid victims

Agartala, Nov 16, 2024, By Our Correspondent102

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M) Tripura State Committee has demanded swift action from Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha to address recent communal violence in North Tripura and provide immediate relief to affected families. The clashes in Kadamtala and Pekucherra have left one dead, 17 injured, and caused widespread destruction, including looting and arson of nearly 160 shops.  

The violence, which began on October 7 in Kadamtala over a Durga Puja subscription dispute, has since escalated, sparking further unrest in Pekucherra. CPI(M) leaders have called for stronger policing, financial compensation for victims, medical assistance for the injured, and robust measures to prosecute those responsible.  

A CPI(M) delegation led by State Secretary Jitendra Chaudhury, along with former minister Manik Dey and MLA Islam Uddin, met the Chief Minister on Saturday, emphasizing the urgent need for action. Speaking to the media, Chaudhury highlighted the party's demands, including continued police deployment to restore peace and stability.  

Referring to past incidents in Gandacherra and Koitorabari, Chaudhury warned of a deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state. Without naming names directly, he accused BJP Minister Sudhangshu Das of making inflammatory remarks that exacerbated tensions.  

Former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar also visited the affected areas, reporting severe losses faced by traders and residents. The CPI(M) criticized the government for its failure to prevent the violence and provide adequate support to the victims.  

In addition to addressing communal unrest, the CPI(M) raised concerns over recent demolitions under the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC). Families displaced to facilitate highway corridor construction have allegedly been left without compensation or relocation support.  

Chaudhury urged the state government to immediately rehabilitate the displaced families and compensate those affected by the violence. He stressed that the government must take decisive steps to restore normalcy, curb communal tensions, and address the grievances of affected communities.