BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 28th October 2025: Tensions flared in the Lockdown Market area of Julai Bari block, Santirbazar, South Tripura as an agitated crowd confronted police officers over fines imposed on overloaded vehicles headed to a Buddhist religious festival.
According to local reports, five vehicles traveling from Silachari to Julai Bari were flagged by Debdaru Outpost Officer-in-Charge (OC) Bakuljoy Reang and his team for violating traffic safety norms. The vehicles were allegedly carrying excess passengers and cargo, breaching provisions under Sections 192 and 194 of the Motor Vehicles Act.
Police intercepted four of the five vehicles, with one managing to flee the scene. The detained vehicles were fined ₹1,800 each for overloading. However, the situation escalated when passengers and vehicle owners, en route to the festival, demanded the fines be returned. The crowd reportedly grew hostile, shouting and pressuring OC Reang to refund the money. Witnesses claim the officer was verbally assaulted, with some individuals—including women—using abusive language during the confrontation.
The altercation drew attention from nearby residents, who intervened to support the police and de-escalate the situation. Several villagers voiced their support for the enforcement action, emphasizing the importance of road safety and the legal mandate against overloaded transport.
“Police are doing their duty to ensure public safety. Overloaded vehicles pose serious risks and violate the law,” said one local resident.
Authorities have reiterated that movement of overloaded vehicles remains strictly prohibited under administrative regulations, and enforcement will continue to uphold safety standards during public events.
