Pregnant Woman Critically Injured in Road Accident, Family Alleges Police Pressured for Settlement Instead of Action, Seeks CM's Intervention
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, August 2, 2026
A serious allegation has surfaced against a police constable in Tripura after the family of a critically injured pregnant woman claimed that, instead of ensuring prompt legal action and facilitating emergency medical assistance, the police officer allegedly pressured them to settle the matter on the spot following a road accident.
The incident has triggered public concern over the functioning of the state police, with questions being raised about whether law enforcement personnel are prioritising compromise over legal procedures in accident cases. The allegations have also sparked criticism from sections of the public, who argue that such incidents tarnish the reputation of the Tripura Police despite its recognition with the prestigious President's Colour honour.
According to the complaint, 28-year-old Shikha Chakma, wife of Rana Chakma and a resident of Jatanbari under Karbook Sub-division, was 32 weeks pregnant when the incident occurred. On July 29, due to pregnancy-related complications, she was referred from Nutanbazar Rural Hospital to Amarpur Sub-Divisional Hospital and later shifted to Hapania Hospital for advanced treatment. After remaining under medical care for three days, doctors advised her to return home.
While travelling back in a WagonR car, the family's vehicle was allegedly hit by a Max vehicle near Bishramganj Bazaar. The impact reportedly caused injuries to Shikha Chakma, including trauma to her abdomen, raising serious concerns for both the mother and the unborn child.
The family has alleged that a traffic constable on duty at the accident site, identified as Harendra Debbarma of Bishramganj Police Station, failed to prioritise the injured woman's emergency medical needs. Instead, they claim he pressured both parties to resolve the matter amicably at the spot and allegedly remarked that "there would be no benefit in going to Bishramganj Police Station." The family further alleged that the constable allowed the accused driver and the vehicle involved in the accident to leave the scene without initiating immediate legal proceedings.
Shikha Chakma was initially taken to Bishramganj Hospital before being referred to GB Pant Hospital in Agartala later that night due to the seriousness of her condition. She is currently undergoing treatment there and is reported to be in a critical condition.
Expressing deep concern over the incident, Shikha's husband, Rana Chakma, has appealed to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha seeking an impartial inquiry into the conduct of the police constable. In his representation, he stated that the foremost duty of a police officer at an accident scene is to ensure the safety of the injured, arrange immediate medical assistance, and initiate legal action in accordance with the law.
He has demanded a fair investigation into the allegations against Constable Harendra Debbarma and urged the state government to take strict departmental action if the allegations are found to be true.
The allegations have not yet been officially responded to by the Tripura Police. An official statement from the police or the state government is awaited.
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