Tensions escalated in the Ranirbazar area of West Tripura after an idol of Goddess Kali was discovered defaced, sparking a violent backlash. At least 12 houses and several vehicles were set alight by unidentified individuals late on Sunday, according to police reports.
The incident took place in the Kaiturbari locality, where the disfigured idol triggered a mob attack.
Assistant Inspector General (Law and Order) Ananta Das stated, “Around 12 houses were set on fire by miscreants after the idol was found defaced. A few motorcycles and pick-up vans were also torched.” Fortunately, no human casualties were reported.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as residents fled their homes to escape the enraged mob. Heavy security forces have since been deployed in the area to prevent further violence.
The Director General of Police, Intelligence, Anurag Dhankar, and West Tripura Superintendent of Police, Kiran Kumar, visited the affected site to assess the situation.
“The situation is now under control,” Das noted, adding that a suo moto case would be registered once the full assessment of property damage is completed.
The incident has raised concerns of communal tension in a state already struggling with the aftermath of devastating floods that have claimed 26 lives and displaced 1.17 lakh people since 19 August.
Tipra Motha leader Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma expressed deep concern over the incident.
“The situation in Ranirbazar Kaiturbari is alarming, with reports of communal clashes. I urge everyone to maintain peace and adhere to the rule of law,” he said in a Facebook post.
He also criticised those exploiting the situation for religious politics, urging unity.
“When our state is reeling under a natural disaster, some elements are playing religious politics. Miscreants, regardless of faith, must be dealt with firmly. The law must be impartial,” he added.
The incident comes amid ongoing struggles in Tripura, which has been reeling under severe floods since August 19. The natural disaster has claimed the lives of at least 26 people and displaced 1.17 lakh residents, adding to the state’s woes.
Follow us
