Public Outcry in Tripura Over ‘Double Standards’ in Justice: Bail for Police Attackers, Remand for Verbal Offence Sparks Debate

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, October 28, 2025

A wave of public outrage is sweeping across Tripura following two sharply contrasting judicial outcomes that have ignited heated discussions on the state’s justice system and administrative accountability. Citizens across the state are questioning whether the law truly treats everyone equally.In one shocking incident from Belonia, a group of unruly youths allegedly attacked the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the local police station. The officer was reportedly dragged down from the stage and assaulted in full public view after he attempted to stop a late-night DJ event that was being held in clear violation of official guidelines. Despite the gravity of the attack on an on-duty police officer, the seven accused were granted bail within a short span of time, a decision that has left many bewildered and frustrated.

In stark contrast, Agartala resident Madhabi Biswas was arrested on charges of making derogatory comments in Facebook against the Prime Minister, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, MP Biplab Kumar Deb, and other public figures. When presented before the court, she was remanded to police custody for three days, a move that has further intensified the public debate over judicial parity and the selective application of law.Speaking to the media, Madhabi’s lawyer, Purusottam Roy Barman, said that the main motive behind Madhabi’s arrest is to silence dissenting voices on social media and suppress critical opinions. “This is not just about one individual, it’s an attempt to create fear among those who dare to question the system, he remarked after the court ordered her three-day police custody.

Across Tripura, ordinary citizens are questioning what they see as a disturbing contradiction in the justice system. “How can those who attack the police walk free, while someone accused of verbal misconduct faces police remand?” asked a social activist in Agartala. Social media platforms, too, are abuzz with sharp criticism, with many calling the situation “a glaring example of administrative failure and moral decline.”

Questions are also being raised about the silence of the Hon’ble High Court over such controversial and seemingly inconsistent decisions. Several civil society groups have urged the judiciary to intervene and restore public confidence in the fairness of Tripura’s justice system.

As one observer noted, “When bail comes easily for violence against the police, but words invite imprisonment, people inevitably lose faith in equality before the law.”For now, one thing is clear — Tripura’s citizens are no longer silent spectators. They are demanding answers, accountability, and above all, justice without bias.

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