West Tripura DM Catches Intoxicant Brown sugar Seller Red-Handed During Anti-Liquor Drive at Battala Market

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, June 9, 2026

In a significant crackdown against substance abuse and illegal intoxicant sales, West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar, IAS and Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak, IPS personally led a large-scale anti-liquor and anti-narcotics operation at Battala Market on Monday evening, resulting in the detention of a youth allegedly selling intoxicant sachets near the Old Hawkers' Market area.

The surprise raid was conducted under the joint leadership of District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar, Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak, SDPO DP Ray and Officer-in-Charge of West Agartala Police Station Rana Chatterjee. The operation targeted illegal liquor outlets and the unauthorized sale of intoxicating substances in and around Battala Market, one of the busiest commercial hubs in Agartala.

During the drive, officials reportedly caught a young man red-handed while he was allegedly attempting to sell Brown sugar and containing other intoxicating substances, commonly known as "kouta." The District Magistrate expressed strong displeasure over the illegal activity and questioned how such substances were being openly sold in residential neighborhoods, endangering the future of young people.

A large contingent of police and administrative officials participated in the operation, which covered several locations across Battala Market and adjoining areas. The drive is part of the district administration's broader campaign against substance abuse, illegal liquor trade, and related criminal activities.

Speaking during the operation, Dr. Vishal Kumar emphasized that the administration is committed to protecting the youth from the harmful effects of addiction and ensuring a safe social environment. Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak stated that such enforcement actions would continue regularly to dismantle networks involved in the illegal sale of intoxicants and liquor.

The district administration observed that while Tripura has witnessed considerable development in recent years, the illegal sale of liquor and intoxicating substances in local neighborhoods remains a serious concern. Officials warned that individuals involved in such activities would face strict legal action.

Residents welcomed the initiative and expressed hope that sustained enforcement would help curb the growing menace of addiction among young people and contribute to maintaining law and order in the state.

The joint operation demonstrates the administration's firm resolve to combat substance abuse and reinforce public confidence in the ongoing efforts to create a healthier and safer society in Tripura.

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