Agartala, October 18: Tripura’s Leader of the Opposition and CPI(M) state secretary, Jitendra Chaudhury, visited the home of Badal Tripura on Friday, following the youth’s alleged death from police custodial torture in South Tripura’s Manubazar police station.
Badal Tripura, a tribal youth, reportedly died a day ago after being released from custody on bail, where he was subjected to inhumane treatment.
During his visit, Chaudhury interacted with the victim’s family to gather detailed information about the tragic incident.
Later speaking to reporters Chaudhury criticized the ruling government for failing to protect the rights and safety of the common people, particularly those belonging to marginalized communities like Badal Tripura’s.
The CPI(M) leader condemned the BJP-led government, which is in alliance with IPFT and TIPRA Motha, stating that this incident reflects the collapse of the promised “Sushasan” (good governance) under their rule.
Chaudhury also directed sharp criticism at the role of the Santir Bazaar hospital authorities.
He alleged that despite knowing Badal’s critical condition from police-inflicted injuries, hospital authorities neglected their duty by releasing him on a conditional bond instead of referring him for better medical treatment. This negligence, Chaudhury claimed, directly contributed to Badal’s death.
In his statement, Chaudhury further accused the state’s top law enforcement officials, particularly Director General of Police (DGP) Amitabh Ranjan, of being complicit in perpetuating a culture of impunity.
He noted that due to the DGP and other corrupt officials, sincere officers within the police force were unable to function effectively, allowing lawlessness to thrive in the state.
He called on the public to remain vigilant and actively protest against the rampant corruption and declining law and order under the current regime.
The incident has already resulted in the suspension and arrest of five police officers involved in the alleged custodial torture. A formal investigation into the death of Badal Tripura is currently underway.
This tragic event marks the third case of custodial torture and death in South Tripura in the last two and a half months, with previous incidents reported at the R.K. Pur and Nutan Bazar police stations.
Chaudhury’s demand for justice and accountability has intensified the ongoing debate about the state’s governance and police conduct, as people await the results of the investigation into this disturbing case.
