Tripura: BJP rally comes under attack in Ampi, several injured
Clashes followed by vandalism created a volatile situation in Ampi under Gomati District on Saturday (March 11) and at least 15 persons were injured. Security personnel had to lathi charge and lob tear gas shells to disperse the violent supporters. Police arrested five persons in this connection and security arrangements were beefed up in the area.
Trouble started after a group of miscreants allegedly TIPRA Motha Party (TMP) supporters attacked BJP’s victory rally today. To celebrate its victory in the Assembly Election, BJP organized victory rally across the State today. Along with the other parts, a rally by BJP was brought out in Ampi.
BJP supporters from different villages under the Ampi Mandal took part in the rally. As the procession reached near the TIPRA Motha Party Office at Hari Pura in Ampi, alleged TMP activists attacked the rally. The miscreants were armed with Beer bottles, sticks and slingshots. Soon the area turned into a battlefield as the supporters started a pitched battle.
The rampaging alleged TMP supporters demolished a Transport syndicate office.
Meantime, several people were injured and were rushed to the Ampi PHC.
BJP vice president Patal Kanya who unsuccessfully contested from the Ampinagar Constituency was on her way to attend the rally when the violence started. She had to make a return journey without attending the rally because of the violence.
Later, alleged TMP supporters attacked the PHC and another round of scuffle ensued between the security personnel and TMP supporters. To disperse the unruly and furious supporters, security personnel resorted to lathi charge and fired seven tear gas shells.
Till the last available information, at least 15 persons including one security personnel were injured.
Local administration immediately clamped prohibitory Section 144 in the area. Meantime, Police nabbed five persons for their alleged involvement in the violence, the SDPO said.
Tension is running high but the situation is under control at the time of filing the report. Massive security arrangements were made in the area.