Agartala, July 13:Communal tensions have erupted in Gandatwisa, Tripura, following the death of tribal student Parameshwar Reang, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a mob lynching. In the wake of the violence, several houses and shops were set ablaze, prompting authorities to impose Section 144 in the area and ban on internet service for 24 hours.
Parameshwar Reang, a 21-year-old tribal student, was brutally assaulted on July 7 during a fair in Gandatwisa when he intervened to rescue a mentally unstable young man who was being beaten by several non-tribal individuals. The attackers reportedly used rods and electrocuted him. Despite being rushed to GBP Hospital in Agartala, Parameshwar succumbed to his injuries on Friday afternoon.
As the death body reached Gandatwisa it sparked anger, leading to widespread violence. In the evening an angry mob torched multiple houses and shops, targeting non-tribal properties.
Reports indicate that the situation in Gandatwisa remains critical, with many residents fleeing their homes and seeking refuge in nearby jungles.
To control the situation, a large number of security forces have been deployed, but the mob remains largely uncontrolled. In an effort to restore order, police fired shots tear gas shels to disperse the crowd.
Senior top officials including the district Superintendent of Police and other district administration officials had reached the spot and monitoring the situation and working in the ground to maintain peace.
It may be mentioned that earlier in the day, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma visited GBP Hospital to inquire about Parameshwar’s condition.
He assured the victim’s father that the state government would take firm action and ensure justice. Following this assurance, four suspects were arrested in connection with the attack.
Meantime, the victim’s father has called for justice and demanded the death penalty for those responsible for his son’s death.
