Anganwadi recruitment dispute sparks road blockade at Dhanpur; Teachers struggle to collect examination papers

Agartala, 2^nd November 2026 : A controversy surrounding the appointment of an Anganwadi helper in Dhanpur triggered a road blockade on Monday, disrupting normal traffic on the Sonamura–Kathalia road and creating difficulties for schoolteachers on examination duty.

The protest erupted in the Taziamura area following allegations that the post of Anganwadi helper had been given to a candidate allegedly having family links with a senior BJP leader of Sepahijala district. Locals questioned the selection process, claiming that eligible residents had been overlooked in favour of someone with political connections.

Voicing their anger, protesters alleged that political influence was increasingly determining access to employment opportunities. They demanded accountability from the authorities and questioned whether recruitment procedures were being conducted impartially. The agitation also brought renewed attention to allegations of political interference in local-level appointments.

The timing of the protest has added to its political significance, as municipal and Nagar Panchayat elections are approaching. The issue could become a point of contention during the election campaign, particularly among rural voters concerned about employment opportunities and administrative fairness.

Meanwhile, the blockade had consequences beyond traffic disruption. Half-yearly examinations for Classes IX to XII were scheduled for Monday in schools under the Kathalia Inspector of Schools. Several teachers reportedly encountered difficulties reaching Kathalia to collect question papers due to the obstruction.

The situation caused concern among educational authorities, as any delay in distributing examination materials could affect the scheduled examinations.

Residents have called for a transparent inquiry into the recruitment controversy, insisting that Anganwadi appointments should be based on eligibility and merit rather than political affiliation or influence. The administration’s position on the allegations remains crucial to resolving the growing discontent.