Internet services restored and restrictions eased in violence-hit Kumarghat, Tripura, as security situation improves. Eleven arrested, heavy security deployment continues, and authorities warn against rumours while peace gradually returns to the sensitive mixed-population region.
Normalcy is gradually returning to Tripura’s Kumarghat subdivision in Unakoti district after days of tension triggered by communal clashes. With the security situation showing signs of improvement, the district administration on Monday restored internet and mobile data services and partially relaxed prohibitory orders imposed following the violence that erupted on January 10.
Officials confirmed that the suspension of internet services, enforced as a preventive measure to curb the spread of rumours and misinformation, was lifted after a review of the ground situation. At the same time, restrictions imposed under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, have been eased and are now limited to select vulnerable pockets under the Fatikroy police station area.
According to senior police officials, at least 11 individuals from both communities have been arrested so far in connection with the clashes. While the area remains sensitive, authorities said the situation is largely peaceful, with no fresh incidents reported since Saturday night.
Unakoti District Magistrate Tamal Majumder stated that the administration took a calibrated decision after assessing security inputs and consultations with law enforcement agencies. “Internet and mobile data services, which were suspended to prevent escalation, have now been restored. Prohibitory orders have been restricted only to specific vulnerable zones,” he said.
The violence reportedly began on Saturday when a group of youths allegedly stopped a timber-laden vehicle at Saidarpar under the Fatikroy police station limits and demanded a subscription for a local community fair. Tensions escalated when a minority family in the Shimultala area allegedly refused to pay the demanded amount.
Following the refusal, an unruly mob allegedly gathered and vandalised properties, setting fire to several houses, vehicles, and a timber shop. A place of worship was also reportedly vandalised, further aggravating communal tension in the mixed-population locality. As news of the incident spread, panic and unrest gripped nearby areas.
In response to the rapidly deteriorating situation, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Kumarghat imposed Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023, across the subdivision to prevent further escalation and maintain law and order. Internet services were also suspended as a precautionary step.
Acting Superintendent of Police Avinash Rai, along with District Magistrate Tamal Majumder and other senior officials, rushed to the affected areas and supervised security arrangements. Additional forces were deployed immediately to contain the violence and reassure residents.
A substantial security presence remains in place, including personnel from the Assam Rifles, Tripura State Rifles (TSR), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and state police. Regular patrols are being conducted, and checkpoints have been established in sensitive areas to prevent any flare-up.
Additional Superintendent of Police Rupam Chakma said the situation is under constant monitoring. “There has been no fresh incident since Saturday night. Security forces are patrolling the area, and senior officials are personally overseeing the situation,” he told the media.
Authorities have also warned against the spread of misinformation. Police said strict action would be taken against individuals circulating rumours, fake images, or misleading videos on social media platforms. Residents have been urged to rely only on official information and cooperate with the administration.
Meanwhile, a delegation of the Communist Party of India (CPI) visited Kumarghat on Monday to assess the situation. However, the party alleged that police prevented the delegation from interacting with affected minority families during their visit, leading to accusations of administrative obstruction. Officials, however, maintained that restrictions were imposed strictly for security reasons.
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Chief Minister Manik Saha, who also holds the Home portfolio, addressed the issue during a government function, issuing a strong warning. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands. Those responsible for violence will face strict legal consequences,” he said.
A detailed assessment of property damage is currently underway, and the district administration is expected to initiate relief and rehabilitation measures once the evaluation is complete. Officials reiterated their commitment to restoring peace and ensuring communal harmony in the region.
