Truckers blocked NH-8 in Tripura’s Kumarghat to protest alleged club extortion ahead of Durga Puja. Drivers accused club members of demanding money at knifepoint and assaulting those who refused. Police intervened, but truckers warned of statewide agitation unless Chief Minister Manik Saha ensures strict action against such illegal collections.
Tension erupted in Tripura’s Kumarghat subdivision after truck drivers staged a blockade on National Highway-8 (NH-8) on Wednesday morning, protesting against alleged extortion by local clubs in the run-up to Durga Puja. The protest brought traffic to a grinding halt for several hours and highlighted growing concerns over the menace of forcible collections, despite repeated warnings from the state government.
Extortion Allegations at Knifepoint
The controversy began on Tuesday night when several truckers alleged that their vehicles were stopped near Fatikroy under Kumarghat subdivision by members of local clubs. According to the truck drivers, the club members demanded hefty sums of money in the name of Puja donations. The situation took a violent turn when some truckers, who refused to pay, were reportedly assaulted and threatened at knifepoint.
Truck drivers described the incident as not only harassment but also a serious threat to their safety. “We are not against genuine contributions, but what these clubs are doing is nothing short of extortion. They threaten us with weapons and force us to pay,” one of the drivers said.
Highway Blockade at Kherengjuri
Outraged by the alleged assault, dozens of truckers gathered on Wednesday morning and blocked NH-8 at Kherengjuri, under Churaibari police station. NH-8, being Tripura’s lifeline connecting the state to Assam, witnessed massive traffic congestion due to the sudden protest. Several trucks, passenger buses, and private vehicles were stranded for hours, causing inconvenience to travelers and disruption of goods movement.
The truckers demanded immediate police action against the accused and stronger steps from the government to end such extortion practices. “Every year, especially before Durga Puja, we are forced to pay these illegal collections. This year, we have had enough. We will not allow this menace to continue unchecked,” said another protester.
Police Intervention
The blockade was eventually lifted after a police team, led by Sub-Inspector Pritimoy Chakma, rushed to the spot and assured the agitated drivers that action would be taken. Police officials reportedly initiated a probe into the allegations and promised to identify and penalize those involved in extortion.
Authorities also urged the drivers to avoid taking the law into their own hands and assured that the matter would be handled as per legal provisions. “We have taken note of the complaints. The issue will be addressed with seriousness, and culprits will face strict action,” a police source said.
CM’s Warning Against Forcible Collections
The incident comes days after Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha issued a stern warning against forcible collections in the name of Durga Puja. The Chief Minister had made it clear that such activities would not be tolerated and had directed law enforcement agencies to take immediate action against violators.
Despite the warning, truck drivers allege that club members continue to harass them under the guise of collecting donations. The drivers have now urged the Chief Minister to intervene directly to ensure their safety and safeguard the smooth flow of goods transportation.
Drivers Threaten Statewide Agitation
Although the blockade at NH-8 was lifted following police assurance, the truck drivers have warned of a larger agitation if such incidents persist. They threatened to organize a statewide protest, which could disrupt transport and supply chains ahead of the festive season.
“Truckers play a crucial role in maintaining the supply of goods, especially ahead of Durga Puja. If our safety is compromised and extortion continues, we will have no option but to call for a statewide agitation,” a truckers’ union member said.
Growing Concern Ahead of Festivities
Extortion by local clubs ahead of major festivals has long been a contentious issue in Tripura. While clubs often cite financial requirements for organizing cultural and religious programs, truck drivers and traders argue that coercive and violent methods are unlawful and harmful to society. With Durga Puja around the corner, authorities now face the urgent challenge of ensuring law and order while balancing public sentiments attached to traditional festivities.
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The incident at Kumarghat serves as a stark reminder of the recurring problem, highlighting the pressing need for stronger government intervention and strict law enforcement. As Tripura gears up for Durga Puja, the state government will be closely watched on how it handles the situation to prevent further unrest.
