Agartala, August 22: Political tensions in Tripura’s tribal areas escalated on Saturday after a BJP party office at Khumulwng, the headquarters of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), was allegedly attacked by supporters of its alliance partner, the Tipra Motha Party. Several vehicles were reportedly vandalised in the incident, triggering fresh concerns over political violence ahead of the forthcoming Village Committee elections.
The incident reportedly took place in the late afternoon at the BJP office in Khumulwng. According to preliminary inputs, around 12 motorcycles and two cars were damaged during the alleged attack. No casualties have been reported so far.
The incident comes at a politically sensitive time, with the BJP and Tipra Motha yet to reach a settlement over seat-sharing and the alliance arrangement for the upcoming Village Committee polls. Leaders of both parties have been holding discussions and making repeated visits to New Delhi to meet the BJP’s central leadership over the issue.
The alleged vandalism has heightened tension in and around Khumulwng. Security forces have been deployed in the area to prevent any further escalation and maintain law and order.
While allegations have been levelled against supporters of the ruling Tipra Motha Party, the identities of those responsible for the vandalism have not been independently confirmed. Authorities are expected to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those involved.
The development has also revived concerns over political clashes in the TTAADC region, particularly in view of violence reported during previous electoral periods. With preparations and political activities gaining momentum ahead of the Village Committee elections, the latest incident could further strain relations between the two alliance partners.
Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha, when asked about the incident in Khumulwng, said he was not aware of the details at the time and was seeking information regarding what had happened.
The incident assumes significance as differences between the BJP and Tipra Motha continue despite their partnership in the state government. Apart from disagreements over the Village Committee elections, the two parties have also faced differences concerning the functioning and political affairs of the tribal council.
The latest confrontation has added to the uncertainty surrounding the alliance’s electoral strategy and raised questions over whether the partners can resolve their differences before the polls.
