Reign of Intimidation: BJP Supporters Allegedly Stop Former Minister Manik Dey from Attending Social Event in Jirania

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, October 12, 2025

A shocking incident in Jirania has once again raised concerns about political intimidation in Tripura. Former minister and senior CPI(M) leader Manik Dey was allegedly obstructed by BJP supporters from attending a social function on Saturday, highlighting what opposition leaders describe as the ongoing reign of terror in the Jirania subdivision.

According to reports, Manik Dey, who is also a member of the CPI(M) Central Committee and the convenor of the Tripura Left Front Committee, was invited to attend a wedding ceremony at Kali Tilla, Sachindranagar Colony, Jirania. Dey, accompanied by his wife, left Agartala around noon to attend the event.

However, at around 12:45 PM, as their vehicle approached the Jirania Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office area, their car was allegedly intercepted in a dramatic, film-style blockade. A black luxury vehicle stopped in front of Dey’s car, while another vehicle pulled up behind, effectively trapping his vehicle in the middle of the national highway.

Dey accused local BJP workers, led by Gautam Pal, of orchestrating the obstruction. He also alleged that Pal had previously been involved in multiple attacks and vandalism incidents targeting CPI(M) offices in Jirania. According to Dey, Pal is a close associate of local MLA and Minister Sushanta Chowdhury.

The former minister claimed that several police personnel were present nearby during the incident but did not intervene to assist him. He later reported the matter to Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Dhankar, as confirmed to a tripurainfo.com correspondent.

Opposition CPIM leaders have condemned the incident, calling it yet another example of political intolerance and an undeclared ban on opposition movements in certain parts of the state. Meanwhile, no official comment from the BJP or the police has been released on the matter so far.

more news...