**Kadamtala, February 12:** The 12-hour nationwide strike called by Left-affiliated trade unions on Thursday witnessed mixed reactions in North Tripura district, particularly in Kadamtala block, where both supporters and opponents took to the streets.
From early morning, CPI(M) leaders, workers and supporters staged picketing and rallies in Kadamtala. Among those leading the demonstrations were MLA Islam Uddin of Kadamtala-Kurti constituency, senior leader Amitabha Dutta and district leader Jahurul Haque. A procession moving along the Churaibari–Kadamtala road was halted by police and protesters were temporarily detained for nearly two hours at the North Fulbari High Basic School ground near Premtala Bazaar.
To maintain law and order, DCM Genius Debbarma and officers-in-charge of Churaibari and Kadamtala police stations remained present at the site. After discussions with the administration, the protesters were released and asked to maintain peace. The CPI(M) members later resumed their march and returned to their party office.
Amitabha Dutta described the strike as successful, calling it part of a nationwide movement against what he termed “anti-worker labour codes.” He said several organisations across the country backed the protest and warned of intensified programmes if demands were not met.
In contrast, BJP Yuva Morcha activists organised counter-protests, raising slogans against the bandh. BJP’s Kadamtala Mandal president Bimal Purkayastha claimed the strike failed to garner public support, noting that shops remained open, vehicles operated normally and offices functioned as usual.
While Left leaders asserted that common people supported the bandh, BJP representatives maintained that daily life was largely unaffected. Security forces were deployed across Kadamtala to prevent any untoward incidents and ensure a peaceful atmosphere.
