Agartala, September 09: A fish fry distribution program intended to benefit the residents of 15 wards in the Khowai Municipal Council area turned violent in Ward No. 14. The distribution led by Councilor Shanku Pal was organized by the Khowai Municipal Council authorities, who had directed that fish fry be distributed equally to all beneficiaries with ponds.
The incident took place on Monday morning when Manik Sutradhar, a beneficiary questioned Councilor Shanku Pal about the absence of fish fry despite having a pond. Eyewitnesses reported that the situation quickly escalated into a heated argument. In a shocking turn of events, Councilor Pal allegedly began beating the sick Sutradhar with a stick.
One witness, who wished to remain anonymous described the scene: “It was horrifying. Manik was on the ground, bleeding profusely. His head was smashed and his leg was severely injured.”
The violent altercation left Sutradhar bleeding on the ground with severe injuries to his head and leg. The local residents outraged by the councilor’s actions retaliated against Pal, who fled the scene and sought refuge in the Khowai Pur Parishad office.
Sutradhar, who is the secretary of the Khowai Cricket Association and a former labor leader, was rushed to Khowai District Hospital in a critical condition. Due to the severity of his injuries, doctors arranged for his transfer to GB Hospital for further treatment.
Following the incident, BJP leadership visited the hospital to check on Sutradhar’s condition. A party spokesperson stated, “We are deeply concerned about Manik’s health and are committed to ensuring justice is served.”
The incident has sparked widespread anger among the residents, who have long accused Councilor Pal of corruption and illegal activities. Despite the growing dissatisfaction, the higher leadership of the ruling party has yet to take any action against Pal.
Local resident Rina Das expressed the community’s frustration: “We have been complaining about Shanku Pal for years, but nothing has been done. This incident is just the tipping point.”
As the investigation continues, the residents of Khowai Municipal Council are calling for immediate action and accountability from their leaders.
