Agartala: Prohibitory orders were imposed in Kumarghat subdivision of Tripura’s Unakoti district on Saturday after violent clashes between two groups over the collection of subscription for a local temple left several people injured and triggered arson and vandalism, officials said.
The trouble began at Saidarpar under Fatikroy police station limits when a group of youths stopped a timber-laden vehicle and demanded a contribution for a Shiva temple, a senior official said.
The driver contacted timber merchant Masabbir Ali, who told the youths that he had already paid the subscription.
An argument followed, which soon escalated into violence. The youths allegedly attacked Ali and the driver, leaving both injured.
As word of the incident spread, members of another community gathered at the spot, leading to clashes between the two sides.
During the violence, Masabbir Ali’s timber shop was set on fire, with flames spreading to three nearby houses. A local mosque was also ransacked, officials said.
The district administration rushed additional police forces to the area, and a lathi-charge was carried out to disperse the mob.
Senior officials, including the district magistrate, were present on the ground to bring the situation under control.
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Unakoti district magistrate Tamal Majumder said the situation had since been stabilised, with paramilitary forces, including the Assam Rifles, CRPF, BSF and Tripura State Rifles, deployed to maintain law and order.
Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita were imposed across Kumarghat subdivision, and internet services were suspended for 48 hours as a precautionary measure.
Police have registered a suo motu case in connection with the incident, and around eight people were brought to the police station for questioning.
Senior Congress leader Birajit Sinha condemned the clashes, alleging that innocent people were attacked and properties damaged, including the mosque.
He said at least five to six people were injured in the violence and called for strict action against those responsible.
