BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 28th March 2026: Kailashahar’s dual standards in governance have once again come under public scrutiny. While small vendors are routinely evicted in the name of clearing footpaths, influential business owners continue to occupy public spaces with impunity, raising the question: is the law meant only for the poor?
Periodic drives are conducted to remove pushcarts, snack stalls, and roadside vendors, even though their presence during the day rarely causes major traffic disruptions. The real problem, however, lies elsewhere unchecked e-rickshaw movement and blatant encroachment by powerful businessmen.
Unregulated e-rickshaws have become a leading cause of traffic congestion and accidents in the town. Vehicles stopping abruptly or turning recklessly have increased risks for commuters, yet no effective measures have been taken.
More alarming is the case of a prominent gold trader on Central Road, the city’s busiest stretch. For years, he has converted government land, meant for pedestrian use into a private parking zone. Steel posts, iron chains and paving blocks have transformed the area into what appears to be his personal property. This illegal occupation severely restricts pedestrian movement, worsened by the presence of a road divider, nearby banks, and shopping malls, resulting in daily gridlock.
The consequences have been serious. During a fire incident last year, a fire engine was trapped in traffic near the encroached zone. The situation turned so dire that the vehicle’s tire burst after hitting the divider, exposing glaring administrative failure.
Despite such incidents, neither the municipal council nor the administration has issued notices or taken action against the businessman. The silence raises troubling questions mere negligence, or the invisible weight of influence and money?
Public frustration is mounting. Residents fear that unless strict measures are taken, more powerful individuals will follow suit, turning public land into private property. The principle of equality before law is at stake, and with it, the people’s trust in governance.
