Severe tension gripped the Saydarpara–Shimultala area under Fatikroy police station in Tripura’s Unakoti district ahead of the traditional Bhairab Mela scheduled to be held from January 24 to 26. 

The situation turned volatile following a dispute over collection of donations, leading to large-scale violence, arson, vandalism, and assaults, effectively challenging the rule of law in the region.

According to local sources, the unrest began at the Bhairab Thali in Saydarpara along the Kanchanbari Main Road when members of the mela committee allegedly demanded donations from a timber-laden vehicle owner, Mosabbir Ali. A heated argument soon escalated into a violent clash. Within a short time, the confrontation spiraled out of control, with groups blocking roads and setting fire to several shops.

Eyewitnesses reported that a group of miscreants carried out a planned attack, unleashing widespread destruction. A timber shop and stacks of hay stored in front of several houses were reduced to ashes. Multiple residential houses and vehicles were vandalized, while several innocent civilians sustained injuries, spreading fear and panic across the area.

As the situation worsened, a large contingent of security forces was deployed to restore order. Personnel from the Tripura State Rifles (TSR), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Assam Rifles cordoned off the area. Police resorted to mild lathi-charge to disperse the agitated crowd, while drone surveillance was initiated to monitor the situation.

Unakoti District Magistrate Dr. Tamal Majumdar and In-charge Superintendent of Police Avinash Rai rushed to the spot to assess the situation. The district administration imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to prevent further escalation. Additionally, mobile internet services across Unakoti district have been suspended for 48 hours as a precautionary measure.

Speaking to the media, Acting SP Avinash Rai said,“Some miscreants deliberately entered the area and carried out arson and vandalism. Security forces were immediately deployed, and the situation has been brought under control. Strict action is being taken against those involved.”

He confirmed that 10 people have been arrested so far in connection with the violence.

Although authorities claim the situation is currently under control, tension continues to prevail in the area. Police patrolling has been intensified, and the administration has warned of strict action against anyone attempting to spread rumors or incite communal unrest.

Reacting to the incident, Minister Sudhangshu Das described the violence as “unfortunate” and assured the public that swift action was taken by the local administration and police. In a social media post, he stated that several accused had already been arrested and emphasized that law and order had been restored.

The minister urged citizens to refrain from spreading misinformation and appealed to the public to cooperate with the administration to maintain peace.