Agartala: Tension escalated in parts of Fatikroy in Tripura’s Unakoti district after violent clashes allegedly broke out over the collection of donations for the upcoming Bhairab Mela, sources said.
The violence erupted in the Saidarpara–Shimultala area under Fatikroy police station. Miscreants allegedly went on a rampage and set private properties on fire.
Officials said the trouble began on Kanchanbari Main Road near the Bhairab Mela site. A heated argument reportedly broke out between members of the mela committee and a timber-laden vehicle owner, identified as Mosabbir Ali, over donation collection for the fair scheduled from January 24 to 26. The argument soon turned violent and led to clashes between two groups.
Eyewitnesses said some people blocked the road and set several shops on fire. The situation quickly worsened as arson, stone-pelting and assaults spread in the area. A timber shop was gutted, hay stacks outside several houses were burnt, and multiple houses and vehicles suffered damage. Several civilians sustained injuries.
Police rushed to the spot along with personnel from the Tripura State Rifles, CRPF and Assam Rifles. Security forces carried out a mild lathi-charge to disperse the mob and deployed drones to monitor the situation.
Unakoti District Magistrate Dr Tamal Majumder and SP (in-charge) Avinash Rai visited the affected areas and reviewed the situation. The administration imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita to prevent further violence.
As a precaution, the district administration suspended mobile internet services across Unakoti district for 48 hours to curb rumours and prevent mobilisation.
Addressing the media, SP (in-charge) Avinash Rai said anti-social elements deliberately entered the area and carried out arson and vandalism. He said security forces brought the situation under control and launched strict action against those involved. Police have arrested 10 people so far.
Officials said the situation remains under control but tense. Police have intensified patrolling and warned of strict action against anyone attempting to spread rumours or incite unrest.
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