Tripura CM condemns Hezamara violence, vists victims at GB Hospital

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, January 9, 2026

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over the incident of political violence in Hezamara, asserting that there was a limit to tolerance and warning that those involved in attacks on BJP workers would not be spared.

The Chief Minister made the remarks after visiting GB Pant Hospital here to inquire about the health condition of BJP leaders and workers who were injured in the clash on Wednesday night. The violence reportedly took place when BJP supporters were allegedly attacked in Hezamara, an area considered a stronghold of the ally Tipra Motha.

Speaking to reporters, Saha said attempts to intimidate BJP workers through violence would only strengthen their resolve. He said the BJP did not believe in retaliatory politics but would not remain silent in the face of repeated attacks. Referring to a protest rally organised by BJP supporters earlier in the day at the site of the incident, the Chief Minister claimed that the “troublemakers fled” when party workers gathered to protest peacefully.

Saha also took a veiled swipe at Tipra Motha, suggesting that the incident reflected a lack of control by party leaders over their grassroots workers. He said public appeals for peace often stood in contrast to repeated incidents of violence on the ground, adding that such contradictions were difficult to comprehend. The Chief Minister noted that although some leaders had contacted him earlier in the day to convey birthday greetings, he chose not to raise the issue of violence, as he felt it would serve little purpose.

Meanwhile, Tipra Motha leader Rajeshwar Debbarma condemned the violence but alleged that his party’s supporters were provoked. He claimed that a group of people, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, attempted to incite trouble in the area. Such incidents were undesirable, Debbarma said, urging the government to take steps to eliminate the activities of anti-social elements.

The West Tripura district’s Acting Superintendent of Police visited Hezamara to review the law and order situation. Police said two separate cases had been registered in connection with the incident, including a suo motu case after the officer-in-charge of the local police station was injured during the clash. Names of ten accused have been included in the cases, police said.

Senior BJP leader Bipin Debbarma also visited Hezamara and interacted with party workers following the incident. Later, BJP supporters led by him took out a protest rally in the area, demanding strict action against those responsible. Debbarma alleged that BJP workers were attacked while setting up a new party office in the Simna constituency and warned that Tipra Motha would face consequences in the forthcoming ADC polls through democratic means.

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