Tripura’s Alarming Law and Order: CPI(M) Demands Immediate Action from CM

The political landscape in Tripura is currently under intense scrutiny as the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] raises a serious alarm over what it describes as a “complete breakdown” of Tripura law and order. Citing a litany of violent incidents targeting opposition parties and a troubling lack of police intervention, the CPI(M) has formally appealed to Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha, urging prompt and decisive action to quell the rising unrest.

A Deep Dive into the Deteriorating Tripura Law and Order Situation

Led by Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury, CPI(M) leaders have penned a letter to the Chief Minister, calling for an immediate halt to what they term “the ongoing policy of repression.” The core of their concern revolves around allegations of a compromised state administration and police force, accused of turning a blind eye to repeated assaults on opposition gatherings and leaders. The CPI(M) contends that a segment of the Tripura Police is being manipulated as a “political tool” by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a claim that, if true, could significantly undermine public trust in the state’s law enforcement.

The party’s strong stance on Tripura law and order emphasizes that such alleged misuse of the police force not only serves the ruling party’s interests but also stains the reputation of an institution that once brought considerable honor to the state, even receiving the prestigious President’s Colour.

Documented Incidents Highlighting Concerns Over Tripura Law and Order

The CPI(M) letter meticulously details several recent occurrences to substantiate their claims of escalating political violence, painting a grim picture of the current state of Tripura law and order:

• Bishalgarh Attack (June 17): A pro-Palestine solidarity meeting organized by the CPI(M) was reportedly ambushed by alleged BJP Yuva Morcha activists. The assailants are accused of stone-pelting, vandalizing motorcycles, and ransacking the party office, all reportedly occurring despite police presence. While an FIR was filed, no arrests have been made, raising questions about accountability in maintaining Tripura law and order.
• Karaimura Residence Attack (June 17): On the same day, the home of CPI(M) leader Md. Musharraf Hossain in Karaimura was allegedly attacked. Reports suggest women were assaulted, property was vandalized, and valuables were looted. An FIR was lodged, yet police action remains conspicuously absent.
• Dataram Bazar Assault (June 21): Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman was reportedly physically assaulted during a public meeting, allegedly by BJP workers. Eyewitnesses claim police were present but did not intervene, further exacerbating concerns about the impartiality of Tripura law and order enforcement.
• Takajala Disruption (June 24): A meeting involving CPI(M) state secretary Jitendra Chowdhury in Takajala was allegedly disrupted by individuals believed to be Tipra Motha supporters, who resorted to brick-throwing. Police reportedly remained passive during the incident.
• Kakraban Meeting Cancellation (June 29): A CPI(M) meeting in Kakraban was disrupted when BJP supporters allegedly occupied the venue and attacked the party office. The meeting was ultimately canceled due to alleged police inaction, highlighting the challenges in ensuring peaceful assembly and the broader implications for Tripura law and order.
• Belonia Assault (July 6): In a particularly alarming incident, CPI(M) MLA Dipankar Sen was allegedly dragged off a moving motorcycle and assaulted directly in front of the Superintendent of Police’s residence in Belonia, raising serious questions about the safety of public figures and the effectiveness of Tripura law and order mechanisms.
• Kamalpur Program Cancellation (July 7): CPI(M) was compelled to cancel a campaign program in Kamalpur due to threats from BJP supporters and alleged non-cooperation from local police, underscoring the climate of intimidation.

The Urgent Call for Restoring Democratic Norms and Tripura Law and Order

The CPI(M) asserts that this “string of unchecked violence” has fostered an pervasive atmosphere of fear and lawlessness across the state, jeopardizing the safety and security of the general populace. The party’s plea to the Chief Minister underscores the critical need for his immediate intervention to restore democratic norms and ensure that the police force operates independently, free from any political pressure. The efficacy of Tripura law and order hinges on such impartiality and swift action to address these serious allegations. The public awaits a robust response from the state leadership to these pressing concerns.