By TC News Desk
Agartala, 23rd June 2025: A recent acid attack in the NC Nagar area of Sonamura has taken a dramatic turn with families of the accused alleging a deep-rooted conspiracy linked to a past kidnapping case.
The victim identified as 26-year-old Rubina Akhter sustained burn injuries to her hands and legs after being attacked late at night on June 15 while stepping out to use the lavatory. She was initially treated at the Sonamura Primary Health Centre and later shifted to GBP Hospital in Agartala, where she remains in stable condition.
Police have registered an FIR against three individuals Sumon Mia, Rubel Hossain and Farid Mia, all residents of a nearby village. However, the families of the accused claim they are being falsely implicated in retaliation for a 2024 kidnapping case involving Rubina Akhter and her alleged associate, Humayun Kabir.
According to the family’s account, on September 18, 2024, Rubina and Humayun allegedly abducted a minor girl, the niece of Rubel Hossain from Banshpukur Bazar. The girl was reportedly lured into a vehicle under the pretext of a family connection and rendered unconscious after being given a drink. She was rescued three days later from Manu in South Tripura and Humayun Kabir was subsequently jailed in connection with the case.
Following his release on bail, the victim’s family alleges they faced threats and coercion to withdraw the case, including an offer of Rs 5 lakh. “We were told not to appear in court or our homes would be burned,” said a relative of the minor girl, referring to court hearings held on June 10 and 12.
The acid attack occurred near the Indo-Bangla border, a high-security zone where movement is restricted after 6 p.m. by the Border Security Force (BSF). The incident took place around 11 pm has raised questions about how the assailants accessed the area undetected.
A senior police official confirmed, “We are investigating all angles, including the possibility of prior enmity. No arrests have been made yet, and the case remains open.”
Local residents and rights groups have urged authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. “This is not just about one attack—it’s about justice and ensuring no one is wrongfully punished,” said a local leader at Sonamura.