Agartala: Oct 06: A clash between two groups occurred near Kadamtala block in the North district following accusations of extortion by a local club over Durga Puja donations. The incident began when members of the puja committee allegedly demanded Rs. 5,000 from the driver of a car carrying a patient to another state. When the driver refused, members of the Indian Club reportedly assaulted him and others in the car.
In retaliation, local residents attacked the club and nearby houses, resulting in assaults on several individuals, including women and children. The situation escalated, leading to a clash in the Kadamtala police station area. Police intervened with a mild lathi charge to control the situation.
North District SP Bhanu Lal Saha arrived at the scene and deployed police and TSR forces throughout the area. Two individuals, Nirmalendu Sen and Dwipjoy Nath, were arrested. Some residents approached the police station seeking security. The area remains tense, with police and paramilitary forces maintaining order.
District SP Bhanu Chakraborty stated that tensions had erupted between two communities over Durga Puja donations. The police acted swiftly to disperse the groups and are monitoring the situation closely. Section 163 may be imposed if necessary.
Two houses and a beauty parlor were vandalized during the clash. The district SP has appealed for peace and assured that a large police and TSR presence will remain in the area. One person has been detained in connection with the incident, and the police are investigating to prevent further unrest.
Despite directives from the Chief Minister, incidents of extortion for Durga Puja donations continue to be reported across the state, causing frustration among residents.
