Alleged Land Mafia Activity in Sonamura: Waterbody Filling and Demolition of Kali Temple Trigger Public Outrage

By Our Correspondent

Agartala, October 22, 2026

Serious allegations of illegal land filling and the demolition of a Kali temple have triggered widespread resentment among residents in Sonamura, where a large waterbody, once considered an important source of water for local households, is allegedly being filled with soil despite repeated complaints to the authorities.

Local residents have accused a group allegedly involved in land-grabbing activities of carrying out the work in disregard of existing rules and administrative restrictions. The allegations have raised serious concerns over the protection of traditional waterbodies, the preservation of places of worship and the alleged failure of the authorities to prevent the ongoing activities.

According to local sources, the waterbody has been subjected to continuous soil dumping, reportedly taking place under the cover of darkness. Residents claim that the site was once an important source of water for drinking and other daily household needs. They fear that the continued filling will eventually destroy the waterbody and deprive the locality of a valuable natural resource.

The controversy has taken a more serious turn following allegations that a Kali temple, established through the initiative of local residents, was demolished to facilitate the soil-filling operation.

According to residents, the temple was situated along the route through which soil was being transported for the filling work. They allege that the structure was demolished during the night and that the filling operation continued thereafter.

The alleged demolition has caused considerable anger among sections of the local population, for whom the temple was not merely a religious structure but also a place associated with community faith and devotion.

Residents have demanded an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged demolition, including who carried it out, whether any permission was obtained and whether the incident involved violations of applicable laws.

more news...