Agartala, 11th April 2026: The run-up to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections witnessed a surge in tension across several parts of the state, with incidents of violence, political confrontation and alleged violations of the election code of conduct being reported on Saturday.
Clashes between supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Tipra Motha Party were reported from multiple constituencies, even as opposition parties accused the BJP of attempting to influence voters through inducements. CPI(M) leaders, along with Tipra Motha representatives, alleged that BJP workers distributed cash in certain areas, including outside ADC jurisdictions. Reports also surfaced of a BJP functionary being caught while allegedly distributing money.
In the Kathalia–Mirza–Rajapur constituency, a 65-year-old woman, Ohila Rani Noatia, was allegedly assaulted after attending a BJP meeting. She was admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Meanwhile, tension escalated in Takarjala after BJP candidate Nirmal Debbarma reportedly faced attacks from suspected Tipra Motha supporters, forcing him to leave the area and take shelter at the party’s Bishalgarh office. His residence was also allegedly vandalised.
Allegations of poll code violations during the 48-hour silence period further added to the charged atmosphere. In Dhanpur’s Kachchakhola area, the presence of BJP leaders inside a house triggered protests from Tipra Motha workers, who rejected claims that it was a personal visit.
Amid the unrest, an instance of cooperation drew attention when Tipra Motha candidate David Mura Singh ensured the safe exit of BJP MLA Jitendra Majumder from a tense situation in Kalikhola.
Protests were also reported in Madhuban ADC village under Karamchhara constituency, where BJP leader Molina Nath faced resistance from Tipra Motha supporters. In Ambassa, questions were raised over administrative preparedness after polling and security personnel were seen using auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws due to an apparent shortage of vehicles.
In a separate incident in Chawmanu, Tipra Motha leader Mohan Lal Chakma was reportedly assaulted, with unconfirmed reports also suggesting recovery of weapons from a vehicle linked to him, adding to the controversy.
Senior police officials visited Dhalai district to review the law and order situation. Director General of Police Anurag Dhankar said extensive security arrangements have been put in place, including deployment of over 12,000 state police and TSR personnel along with 24 companies of central armed forces, to ensure peaceful polling.
The Election Commission has sought a report on the incidents, particularly from Takarjala. State Election Commission officials reiterated that strict enforcement of the silence period is in place, restricting public gatherings and movement of outsiders in ADC areas.
Authorities have appealed for calm and cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure a free and fair electoral process, even as tensions continue to simmer ahead of polling day.
