Tripura’s Unakoti under prohibitory orders after communal clashes; internet suspended for 48 hours

The violence erupted in Saidarpar village under Fatikroy police station limits after a dispute over the collection of subscriptions for a local Shiva temple.

• Prohibitory orders and internet suspension in Tripura's Unakoti after clashes
• At least five injured and property damaged in Kumarghat subdivision violence
• Heavy security deployed and flag marches conducted to restore order

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Prohibitory orders were imposed and mobile internet services suspended for 48 hours in Tripura’s Unakoti district on Saturday after communal clashes broke out in the Kumarghat subdivision, leaving at least five to six people injured and causing extensive damage to property.

District authorities imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and deployed a heavy security presence, including central and state forces, to prevent further escalation.

Units of the Assam Rifles, CRPF, BSF and Tripura State Rifles were pressed into service, while flag marches were conducted to restore confidence among residents.

“The situation is now under control. Prohibitory orders have been imposed in Kumarghat subdivision, and internet services have been suspended as a precautionary measure,” Unakoti District Magistrate Tamal Majumder told PTI.

The violence erupted in Saidarpar village under Fatikroy police station limits after a dispute over the collection of subscriptions for a local Shiva temple.

According to officials, a group of youths stopped a timber-laden vehicle and demanded a contribution. The driver contacted timber merchant Masabbir Ali, who claimed the subscription had already been paid.

“Masabbir reportedly told the youths that he had already paid the subscription, but they insisted on further payment. An argument followed, during which the merchant and the driver were attacked and sustained injuries,” a senior district official said.

As news of the incident spread, members of another community gathered, leading to clashes between the two groups. During the violence, Masabbir Ali’s timber shop was set on fire, with the flames spreading to at least three nearby houses. A local mosque was also vandalised, officials confirmed.

Police and district administration officials rushed to the spot and resorted to a lathi-charge to disperse the mob and regain control of the situation. A suo motu case has been registered, and around eight people have been brought to the police station for questioning.

Senior Congress leader Birajit Sinha condemned the violence and demanded strict action against those responsible. “The attackers not only set a timber shop on fire and assaulted innocent people but also entered a local mosque and caused extensive damage. I strongly condemn the incident and urge strict action against the guilty,” he said.