Agartala, January 24:A day after violent clashes erupted in Kailashahar town of Tripura’s Unakoti district over the submission of Public Works Department (PWD) tenders, Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Saturday asserted that he is fully aware of the incident and assured that firm steps would be taken to put an end to such practices that, he said, have continued in the state for a long time.
Speaking to reporters in Agartala after attending a programme, the Chief Minister, who also holds the Home portfolio, said that law and order would be strictly enforced and no one involved in the violence would be spared under any circumstances.
“I have seen the incident on television and have also received internal reports. My clear message is that whoever is involved in this incident will not be spared,” Saha said.
The Chief Minister further alleged that the opposition was attempting to politicise the incident, which he termed undesirable.
He maintained that the law would take its own course and action would be taken strictly as per legal provisions.
Emphasising the government’s stand against violence, Saha said whatever measures are required would be taken to stop such a culture from continuing in Tripura.
The incident occurred on Friday afternoon when two rival groups, reportedly belonging to the ruling BJP and involved in the tender process, entered into a heated argument that soon escalated into physical clashes.
By evening, the situation deteriorated further, leading to large-scale violence marked by stone pelting, vandalism of shops and incidents of arson.
Reports also indicated that some temporary Yuva Morcha offices were damaged and set ablaze during the unrest.
As the situation spiralled out of control, police resorted to baton charge to disperse the mob and also fired a few rounds in the air to restore order.
Kailashahar Sub-Divisional Police Officer Rahul A said the situation is now completely under control. He added that additional security forces, including personnel from local police stations and the Tripura State Rifles (TSR), have been deployed to maintain peace and prevent any further escalation.
During the operation to control the violent mob, four to five police officers and personnel sustained injuries after being hit by stones and other objects thrown by the crowd. However, none of the injured police personnel are reported to be in critical condition.
The entire area has been placed under tight security for the next 24 hours, and an investigation into the incident has already been initiated. According to the latest reports, no arrests have been made so far in connection with the violence.
