AMC Task Force Removes Unauthorized Left Party Book Stalls in Agartala, Questions Raised on Selective Action

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, September 30, 2025

The Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) task force today carried out an eviction drive against unauthorized stalls allegedly set up by Left leaders and supporters across different roads of the capital city.

According to AMC officials, the book stalls were erected without prior permission from the municipal authority and had been obstructing pedestrian and vehicular movement. The task force dismantled the structures and cleared the encroachments in several parts of the city.

However, the drive has triggered a political controversy with allegations of selective action. At Rabindra Bhavan, Orient Chowmuhani, RMS Chowmuhani, shops including the popular Bikaner House and several others continue to occupy footpaths without any eviction order, raising questions about impartiality in enforcement.

Critics have also pointed out the widespread presence of thousands of flex banners, festoons, and posters of ruling party leaders across Agartala and nearby areas. Many of these displays block public spaces and roads, yet there has been no official action against them. Citizens and opposition voices have demanded clarification on whether such banners have approval from the AMC.

Leaders of the CPIM expressed sharp resentment over the eviction, alleging bias against their party. “Why so much fear of the Left? Across Agartala and rural areas, posters of small and big ruling leaders waste public money and encroach on public spaces, yet authorities do not act. But stalls of CPM are removed immediately. Is this fairness, especially during the festive season?” questioned Left leaders.

Reacting to the controversy, Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor Deepak Majumder defended the action. Speaking to reporters this evening, he said: “The CPM had opened book stalls without permission, causing inconvenience to pedestrians. That is why we instructed officials to remove both the unauthorized food stalls and book stalls that were blocking public pathways.”

While the AMC maintains that its action was based on civic convenience, the debate over selective enforcement and political favoritism continues to intensify in the city.

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