Agartala, January 24: A day after violent clashes rocked Kailashahar town in Tripura’s Unakoti district over the submission of Public Works Department (PWD) tenders, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Saturday said he is fully aware of the incident and assured that strict action would be taken to curb such practices that have persisted in the state for a long time.
Speaking to reporters in Agartala after attending an official programme, the Chief Minister, who also holds the Home portfolio, said that law and order would be enforced firmly and no individual involved in the violence would be spared. “I have seen the incident on television and have also received internal reports. My clear message is that whoever is involved in this incident will not be spared under any circumstances,” Saha said.
The Chief Minister also alleged that attempts were being made by the opposition to politicise the incident, describing such moves as undesirable. He maintained that the law would take its own course and action would be taken strictly in accordance with legal provisions.
Reiterating the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards violence, Saha said all necessary steps would be taken to ensure that such a culture does not continue in Tripura.
The incident occurred on Friday afternoon when two rival groups, reportedly linked to the ruling BJP and associated with the tender process, engaged in a heated argument that soon escalated into violent clashes. By evening, the situation worsened, with reports of stone pelting, vandalism of shops, and incidents of arson. Several temporary Yuva Morcha offices were also reportedly damaged and set on fire during the unrest.
As the situation spiralled out of control, police resorted to baton charges and fired a few rounds in the air to disperse the mob and restore order. Kailashahar Sub-Divisional Police Officer Rahul A stated that the situation is now completely under control. He added that additional forces, including personnel from nearby police stations and the Tripura State Rifles (TSR), have been deployed to maintain peace and prevent further escalation.
During the operation, four to five police personnel sustained injuries after being hit by stones and other objects thrown by the crowd. However, none of them are reported to be in critical condition. The area has been placed under tight security for the next 24 hours, and a detailed investigation has been initiated. As per the latest information, no arrests have been made so far in connection with the violence.
