Agartala, August 19: Building on the momentum of the successful ‘Nesha Mukt Tripura’ initiative, which was launched six years ago to rid the state of drugs, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has announced a new campaign aimed at achieving a “Violence-Free Tripura.”
The declaration was made on Monday during the celebration of Rakhi Purnima or Raksha Bandhan, a festival that symbolizes protection and safety of women or sisters.
The Chief Minister’s call for a violence-free state comes at a time of heightened unrest, particularly following the recent Panchayat elections, which were marred by at least two political deaths and numerous violent incidents. Among the most disturbing were two lynching cases, including that of a teacher in Udaipur and a tribal youth in Gandatwisa that exacerbated communal tensions, resulting in hundreds of homes and shops being torched and leaving many people homeless.
Acknowledging the deep-rooted issue of political violence in Tripura, Saha stated, “This culture of violence, especially political violence, is unacceptable and must end.”
He admitted that while incidents of violence do occur, his government acts swiftly to bring the situation under control and enforce the rule of law.
Reflecting on the state’s progress toward becoming drug-free, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for a similar, determined effort to eliminate violence.
“It’s time we launch a campaign for a violence-free Tripura, where everyone, especially women, can move freely without fear, day or night,” he asserted.
Saha also highlighted the persistent issue of political violence in the state, describing it as an “undesirable but long-standing practice.” However, he noted that his government is working to establish the rule of law and bring about a change, aiming for peaceful elections.
He claimed that political violence has decreased in recent times and reiterated his government’s commitment to reducing it to zero.
Emphasizing the need for safety, particularly for women, CM Saha called for an end to all forms of violence against women.
He stressed that their safety is a critical concern, not only in public spaces but also at workplaces, as today a significant number of women are balancing their responsibilities at home while contributing to the workforce.
The announcement was made as large numbers of women gathered at the Chief Minister’s official residence to celebrate Rakhi Purnima.
During the festival, sisters tie a sacred thread, or Rakhi, on the wrist of their brothers, who in turn pledge to protect them.
The symbolic gesture resonated with the Chief Minister’s call for protection and safety for all in Tripura.
