Photo Courtesy: nenow
Agartala: Police blocked a CPIM rally in Chottakhola on Wednesday to prevent a clash. The procession was intended to honor late party leader Badal Chandra Shil. Shil, a 49-year-old Zilla Parishad candidate, died in 2024 after locals allegedly beat him to death. The CPIM blames the ruling BJP for the killing.
Tensions flared when residents, mostly women, occupied the main road to block the march. These villagers claim authorities falsely jailed seven locals for Shil's murder. Though released on bail, the victim's family convinced the High Court to cancel that bail, sending the suspects back to jail. Police feared the opposing groups would riot.
Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury led the march. He argued that the CPIM had received official permission four days prior. He accused the police of failing to manage the protesters. He then insulted the South Tripura Superintendent of Police, calling him an idiot. Additional Superintendent of Police Suman Majumder demanded the politician show respect. Former MLA Sudhan Das also joined the shouting match.
Chaudhury later doubled down before his supporters. He claimed the state government has abandoned the law. He stated, "We had taken permission at least four days back and came here, but the failure of the Tripura Police was not expected." He vowed to keep returning to Chotta Khola.
The All India Services Association issued a joint statement on Thursday condemning the insults. Representatives from the IAS, IPS, and IFS associations demanded an unconditional apology. They argued the personal attack undermines institutional trust and police morale. They urged political leaders to keep criticism dignified while questioning government actions.
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