Agartala, 9th September 2026 : Tension has surfaced at Mekhlibon Tea Estate in Sundar Tilla, West Tripura, following allegations of forcible occupation of tea estate land, destruction of tea plants and threats to workers.
According to a complaint submitted by the workers of Mekhlibon Tea Estate to the District Magistrate, Sadar, Agartala, on Wednesday, a group of around 30–40 people allegedly attempted to forcibly occupy, or had already occupied, a portion of the estate located at Block No. 35(A), near Natun Bazar.
The workers alleged that approximately 300–350 tea plants and saplings were cut down during the incident. The complaint names Sushil Debbarma, son of Yogesh Debbarma; Priya Kumar Debbarma, Dulu Debbarma and another person identified as Pranab Debbarma, as the alleged primary accused.
The complaint further stated that when tea estate workers went to the area to carry out their routine tea-leaf plucking activities, they were allegedly prevented from entering by individuals from the Natun Bazar area. The workers claimed that they were also threatened with death if they attempted to enter the disputed portion of the estate.
Expressing concern over their safety, the workers said they were living in fear and were apprehensive about carrying out their regular duties. They also warned that continued occupation of the land and destruction of tea plants could seriously affect tea production and the estate’s operations, potentially putting the livelihoods of workers and their families at risk.
Seeking immediate intervention, the workers urged the District Magistrate to order an investigation and initiate legal action against those responsible. They also requested protection of the estate’s land and property, an inquiry into the alleged destruction of tea plants, preventive measures against further incidents and adequate security for the workers.
A copy of the complaint has also been submitted to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Mohanpur, West Tripura.
