In Tripura’s Unakoti district, tensions over the collection of festival and local fair donations have escalated into a violent clash between two communities. The confrontation reportedly began over a dispute involving a man named Mosabbir Ali, who was approached to contribute to a Puja donation. The altercation quickly spiralled, leaving at least five to six people injured and causing damage to several homes and commercial establishments.
Authorities have imposed strict measures to restore order, including suspending mobile internet services. The incident occurred in Kumarghat, under the jurisdiction of Fatikroy police station, when a local fair committee attempted to collect donations for an upcoming event. The disagreement intensified into communal violence, with reports of arson and property destruction.
According to police sources, the dispute began when a timber-laden vehicle was stopped in Saidarpar village and its owner, Mosabbir Ali, was asked for a donation for the local fair. Arguments escalated into a physical clash, which rapidly spread across the area. In Simultala, members of one community refused to pay, prompting retaliation from the other community. Shops, timber yards, and parts of a worship centre were set on fire, while several vehicles were damaged. Piles of hay and materials outside homes also caught fire, heightening panic among residents.
The Tripura State Rifles (TSR) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were deployed in large numbers to control the situation. Police resorted to mild baton charges and utilised drone surveillance to monitor the area. The administration has imposed a 48-hour suspension of mobile internet throughout the district as a precautionary measure.
At least eight individuals have been detained in connection with the violence. Superintendent of Police Avinash Rai stated, “A few youths had set fire to properties, but rapid deployment of forces helped regain control. Section 163 has been invoked, and flag marches are ongoing. The situation is now fully under control.”
Local officials have appealed to residents not to share provocative content on social media. With the traditional Bhairab Mela scheduled from 24–26 January, authorities have assured continued security patrols and surveillance to maintain peace in the region.
Summary of Incident – Unakoti District Violence
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Kumarghat, Fatikroy Police Station, Unakoti, Tripura |
| Trigger | Dispute over Puja and local fair donations |
| Initial Conflict | Mosabbir Ali asked for donation; arguments escalated |
| Casualties | 5–6 injured |
| Arrests | 8 detained |
| Property Damage | Timber yards, shops, worship centre, vehicles damaged; multiple fires |
| Measures Taken | 48-hour internet suspension, TSR & CRPF deployed, flag marches, drone surveillance |
| Upcoming Event | Bhairab Mela, 24–26 January |
The administration has urged calm, emphasising that the situation remains under control, and preventive measures will continue until the fair concludes.