By TC News Desk
Agartala, 24th May 2024: In a shocking revelation, sources have reported that a clandestine gambling event has been taking place under the guise of ‘Buddha Purnima’ celebrations at Durga Bari near the Kali Mandir adjacent to the Airport Police Station. The event commenced on Thursday last and is set to continue through the night until the May 25.
Local residents have expressed outrage over the three-day-long event, which is allegedly being orchestrated by Ratan Guswami, identified as the local booth president. “It’s disheartening to see such activities on a sacred day like Buddha Purnima,” shared a local on condition of anonymity. “The sanctity of our beliefs is being compromised.”
The event is said to be taking place openly in Tea garden, with reports suggesting the involvement of OC Abhijit Mondal and Second Officer Sub Inspector Srikanth from the Airport Police Station.
According to the source, a deal has been struck for the provision of tin canopies, with the police officers allegedly receiving a sum of Rs 60 thousand over three days. “Rs 45 thousand have already been handed over, and the remaining Rs 15 thousand is due tomorrow morning,” the source added.
Amidst the festivities, there have been reports of illegal activities and thefts in the area, casting a shadow over the otherwise peaceful festival. The community’s indignation has been palpable, with calls for immediate action from the Mohanpur sub-divisional administration. The public’s demand for intervention by Sub-Divisional Magistrate Subhash Datta underscores the gravity of the situation.
The role of the police in these events has come under scrutiny, with allegations of their complicity in the gambling operations. “The police are supposed to protect us, not enable such vices,” stated another local resident, echoing the sentiments of the Durga Bari people.
As tensions rise, the integrity of the local law enforcement is questioned, with past successful operations by OC Abhijit Mondal and Sub Inspector Srikanth now overshadowed by these troubling accusations.
