Angry CM Dr. Manik Saha Blames Alliance Partner for Shocking Santirbazar Unrest

Tripura Chief Minister Professor Dr. Manik Saha delivered a powerful statement yesterday that sent a tremor through the state’s political landscape, specifically targeting his own coalition partner for a recent outbreak of severe violence. The Chief Minister squarely held the unnamed alliance party—widely understood to be the Tipra Motha Party—responsible for the unprecedented political tension and widespread anger following the violent events in the Santirbazar area of the Dhalai district.

The severity of the situation prompted Dr. Saha to visit the injured at GB Hospital on Friday morning, where he strongly condemned the attacks. Speaking to reporters, his frustration was palpable as he warned that such acts of violence and lawlessness would not be tolerated “under any circumstances,” setting a firm tone for governance and alliance discipline in the state.

The Cause and Condemnation of the Santirbazar Unrest

The incident, which the Chief Minister labeled a “disgrace in the name of the movement,” involved attacks reportedly carried out with crude weapons, highlighting a dangerous escalation in regional political activities.

• Nature of the Attacks: The assaults described by the Chief Minister were aggressive, involving the reported use of sticks, rods, and slingshots against individuals.
• Criminal Elements: Dr. Saha confirmed that the unrest was not merely political agitation but included serious criminal acts, such as thefts and the alleged snatching of gold chains, blurring the line between protest and pure criminality during the violent incidents referred to as the Santirbazar Unrest.
• CM’s Direct Blame: In an unusual public rebuke, the Chief Minister directly blamed the alliance partner, stating that their actions were solely responsible for fueling the immediate political storm caused by the Santirbazar Unrest.
• Questioning Legitimacy: Expressing his disbelief and condemnation, the Chief Minister questioned the very nature of the protest, rhetorically asking, “Such incidents are a disgrace in the name of the movement… What kind of movement is this?”

The CM’s statement serves as a stark warning to the alliance partner, signaling an end to political tolerance for violent activism, regardless of the demands being raised.

CM’s Stern Warning: Strict Action Against Perpetrators of the Santirbazar Unrest

Beyond condemnation, Dr. Saha outlined a clear and decisive path forward: zero tolerance and immediate judicial action against anyone found responsible for the violence. His strong words reflect a commitment to restoring order and upholding the rule of law above all political affiliations.

• A Promise of Swift Justice: The Chief Minister issued an unequivocal promise for swift and strict action, assuring the public that “No one will be spared.”
• Universal Accountability: Dr. Saha emphasized that the law would be applied equally, declaring that everyone involved—irrespective of their political background, caste, or tribe—will be brought to justice for their roles in the Santirbazar Unrest.
• Decisive Authority Action: In a pointed message to those who repeatedly engage in violent behavior, the CM issued a chilling warning, stating that authorities would act so decisively that some suspected wrongdoers “after a few days, they will not be found.” This signals the government’s readiness to use its full legal and enforcement powers.
• Directives to Officials: Police and district officials have received clear instructions from the Chief Minister to meticulously investigate the incidents, ensure all perpetrators are identified, and initiate immediate prosecution.

The Chief Minister’s visit to the injured at the hospital was not just an act of compassion but a public demonstration of his resolve to protect citizens from political violence.

The Political Fallout of the Santirbazar Unrest

The political implications of the Santirbazar Unrest are significant, threatening to fracture the ruling coalition and create an atmosphere of distrust that could destabilize the state administration. The public admonishment of a key partner reveals deep internal cracks.

• Strained Alliance Dynamics: The public blame game marks a serious escalation in tension between the BJP and its tribal-based ally, placing their collaborative governance under unprecedented strain. The partnership, formed to ensure stability and representation, is now jeopardized by the partner’s alleged involvement in the violence.
• A Test of Governance: The CM is using this incident to draw a clear line: political demands, even for autonomy or tribal rights, cannot be pursued through violence and criminality. This stance aims to reassure the general public that the government remains committed to maintaining peace across all communities.
• Focus on Law and Order: By prioritizing law enforcement and judicial action, the state government is signaling a shift away from political negotiation in favor of security and order maintenance as the immediate response to the Santirbazar Unrest. This approach is crucial for addressing the potential fallout of the Santirbazar Unrest on the ruling coalition.
• Search for Resolution: As the investigation proceeds, the political class is now faced with the dual challenge of administering justice while simultaneously seeking a lasting resolution to the underlying political issues—primarily, the demands for greater autonomy and the future of the alliance—that contributed to the Santirbazar Unrest. The outcome of the police action will heavily influence the direction of Tripura’s political future.