Unrest broke out in Gandacherra sub-division on Friday night following the death of 21-year-old Parameshwar Reang. Miscreants vandalized, looted, and set fire to several homes, prompting authorities to impose Article 144. The violence has been widely condemned, with leaders of the Amra Bangali party taking to the streets in Agartala on Saturday.
Opposition figures, including Jitendra Chaudhary, former Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, and Pradesh Congress president Asish Kumar Saha, criticized the government’s handling of the situation. Additionally, Tipra Matha leader Pradyot Kishore Debbarman visited the grieving family of the deceased.
Tensions escalated after Parameshwar’s body was brought home, igniting conflicts between community factions. A prolonged protest ensued outside the Amra Bengali party office where party secretary Gouranga Rudrapal clarified that Parameshwar died from electrocution during a festive event on July 7, following treatment at GB Hospital.
The unrest led to targeted attacks, forcing many families to seek refuge in nearby forests, with about 50 families severely affected. Reports suggest that the attackers threatened further violence, alleging that the BJP government has shown favoritism towards past perpetrators of communal violence since 2018.
Jitendra Chaudhary disclosed that he had sought police intervention; however, initial attempts to control the situation failed, necessitating discussions with higher authorities for effective management. The Left Front condemned the violence, urging immediate measures to prevent further harm and restore peace.
Demonstrators have called for government accountability, particularly concerning the planning of the recent fair, alleged to have been exploited to incite unrest. Protesters demand compensation for victims, government jobs for Parameshwar’s family, and enhanced security in the area.
Tipra Motha’s Pradyot Kishore Debbarman called for community unity and promised support for Parameshwar’s family, while also criticizing leaders for not aiding affected families, highlighting the need for responsible governance and harmony.
