Agartala, 15th June 2026: The Youth Congress organized a massive protest rally in Agartala today, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and raising concerns over the alleged NEET examination irregularities, along with several other public issues.
The rally, which witnessed the participation of hundreds of Youth Congress workers and supporters, was held to protest against what the party described as rising corruption, soaring prices, growing unemployment, and administrative failures in the state.
The situation became tense when the procession reached near IGM Hospital, where police had erected barricades to prevent the protesters from advancing toward the Chief Minister’s official residence. According to reports, demonstrators crossed the barricades and attempted to move toward the high-security zone surrounding the residence.
In an effort to control the crowd, police first deployed water cannons. However, as protesters continued to advance, security personnel, including CRPF forces, reportedly took stronger measures. Youth Congress leaders alleged that a baton charge was carried out in addition to a second round of water cannon action.
Several protesters were reportedly injured during the confrontation. Eyewitnesses claimed that a number of demonstrators sustained injuries to different parts of their bodies, with some seen bleeding at the scene. The injured were provided preliminary medical treatment.
Condemning the police action, Youth Congress leaders accused the administration of using excessive force to suppress a democratic protest. They argued that the right to peaceful demonstration is a fundamental aspect of democracy and alleged that the government was attempting to silence dissenting voices.
The incident has triggered strong political reactions across the state. Opposition leaders questioned the administration’s handling of the protest, arguing that such strict action is not always witnessed against those involved in law-and-order violations or drug-related crimes.
Meanwhile, police defended their actions, stating that the measures were necessary to ensure the security of the Chief Minister’s residence and maintain law and order in the city. Officials said the security forces acted to prevent unauthorized entry into a protected area.
Although the situation was eventually brought under control, images of injured protesters and the police response have sparked fresh political controversy in Tripura. Political observers believe opposition parties are likely to intensify their criticism of the government over the issue in the coming days.
