A large contingent of Central and state forces has been deployed at Koitorabari in Ranirbazar sub-division under the West Tripura district after tension gripped the area over the defacing of the idol at a local Kali temple by ‘unidentified miscreants’.
The district administration has also clamped prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in the Ranirbazar sub-division.
A police officer said that following the defacing of the Kali idol, the unidentified miscreants attacked nearby areas and torched at least 16 houses, and burnt several vehicles late on Sunday night, causing injuries to four persons.
The Ranir Bazaar police station has taken up the investigation after registering a suo-motu case,” the officer told IANS, adding that no arrests have been made so far.
Director General of Police (Intelligence), Anurag Dhankar, and West Tripura District Superintendent of Police, Kiran Kumar K., rushed to the spot, around 12 km from Agartala, with additional force.
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha appealed to all for maintaining peace in the area. He said, the situation is ‘under control’.
Soon after the incident was reported on Sunday night, Tourism and Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury went to the troubled area and urged people to maintain peace and harmony.
Meanwhile, Tripura Police, said in a post on X: “The situation in Koitorabari under Ranir Bazaar PS has been brought under control, enough forces are deployed to tackle any kind of situation. Please refrain from spreading rumours, strict legal action will be taken against such miscreants.”
Visiting the area on Monday, West Tripura District Magistrate Vishal Kumar called the incident unfortunate, adding that the police and the district administration are working jointly to ensure that the situation remains normal and peace is maintained.
The DM said, “We appeal to the public to show solidarity towards the affected people and not share anything on social media that might flare up the situation. Action will be taken against the rumour-mongers.” (Edited)
(Tripura, Tripura News)
