Agartala : The 24-hour statewide bandh called by the Tripura Civil Society (TCS) under the leadership of Tipra Motha MLA Ranjit Debbarma turned violent on Thursday, sparking widespread unrest, injuries, and property damage across multiple districts. Clashes, arson, and attacks were reported from several parts of the state as agitators targeted shops, houses, and vehicles.

Road blockades were set up in over 45 locations, including key stretches in Agartala, where protestors allegedly stopped and intimidated commuters heading to work. In Khumulwng, a passenger on the way to the airport was reportedly harassed before being released.

The most serious violence broke out at Mungiakami under Teliamura subdivision, a day before Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha was scheduled to address a public meeting in the area. The BJP’s Mungiakami Shaktikendra under 29 Krishnapur Mandal reportedly came under attack by bandh supporters, including individuals linked to Tipra Motha.

According to police, around 25–30 BJP workers were injured when a mob armed with sticks, stones, and bamboo poles stormed a preparatory meeting for the Chief Minister’s rally. The injured were admitted to Teliamura Sub-Divisional Hospital, including Surendra Debbarma, Office Secretary of the Mandal Committee. Police later brought the situation under control, but tension continues to simmer in the region. Additional security forces have been deployed to prevent further escalation.

Violence was also reported from Salema area in Dhalai district, where protestors allegedly torched shops and houses in Shantir Bazar after traders refused to close their businesses. A vehicle was set ablaze, and when fire service personnel tried to douse the flames, their vehicle was attacked. SDPO Samudra Debbarma and Salema BDO Abhijit Majumder sustained head injuries, while a local trader, Biplab Deb, suffered a serious eye injury.

DIG Rati Ranjan Debnath reached the spot with a large contingent of Tripura State Rifles, and the situation was brought under control by late evening. Security has been tightened across sensitive areas as authorities remain on alert.

Following reports of clashes, District Magistrate of Dhalai, Vivek H.B., IAS, imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the BNSS, 2023 in Kamalpur Sub-Division from the evening of October 23. The order prohibits gatherings of more than four persons, use of weapons or dangerous materials, provocative speeches, slogan-shouting, or distribution of inflammatory pamphlets. It also bans the use of rooftops for stone-pelting and restricts vehicle movement in designated areas.

Exemptions have been granted to security personnel, government officials on duty, and patients requiring emergency medical care. The restrictions will remain in force until further notice as the administration seeks to restore peace and prevent further violence across the state.