Agartala, September 27: The convoy of former Tripura chief minister and CPI(M) leader Manik Sarkar was allegedly stopped by a group of people in the Bamutia area of West Tripura district on Sunday morning, with the CPI(M) claiming that one of the vehicles accompanying him was vandalised.
The incident took place around 10 am at Kalibazar when Sarkar was travelling to attend a party organisational conference in Bamutia, according to CPI(M) leaders.
The party alleged that a group of people blocked the road and prevented Sarkar’s convoy from proceeding towards the meeting venue. The blockade reportedly continued for nearly 40 minutes.
CPI(M) leaders further alleged that one of the escort vehicles in Sarkar’s convoy was damaged during the incident. The party accused people allegedly backed by the BJP of being involved in the incident.
The allegations could not be independently verified immediately.
The situation at the spot remained tense for some time as CPI(M) supporters, including members of the party’s youth wing, gathered there, according to party accounts.
The group that had allegedly blocked the road subsequently dispersed, allowing Sarkar’s convoy to move ahead.
Despite the disruption, Sarkar later reached the conference venue and addressed the party gathering as scheduled.
CPI(M) leaders condemned the incident and alleged that it was an attempt to intimidate opposition leaders during a period of heightened political activity in the state.
The incident comes a day before polling for the Village Committee elections under the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), with political parties engaged in campaigning and organisational activities across the state.
The CPI(M) has previously raised allegations of intimidation and political violence during the election process and has sought adequate security arrangements. The ruling alliance has rejected such allegations.
The latest incident is likely to draw attention to security arrangements for political leaders and the maintenance of law and order during the elections.
The CPI(M) said the incident underscored the need for authorities to ensure a peaceful environment for political activities and the electoral process.
Sarkar, a former chief minister and senior CPI(M) leader, has remained active in the party’s organisational programmes and election-related activities in the state.
Authorities have not yet publicly provided details on the incident or announced any action in connection with the alleged obstruction or damage to the vehicle.
The incident may add to concerns raised by opposition parties over the political environment in Tripura ahead of the Village Committee polls.
