A day labourer was allegedly attacked with a sharp weapon over a dispute involving just Rs 30 in Kailashahar subdivision of Unakoti district, Tripura. 

The victim is currently undergoing treatment at Unakoti District Hospital in critical condition, and the incident has created tension in the area.

The incident took place at Bhoter Bazar under the Samrurpar Gram Panchayat in Kailashahar subdivision. The injured labourer has been identified as Pradip Shukla Baidya, a resident of Bhadrapally area in Ward No. 6 under Samrurpar Gram Panchayat in Chandipur block. He earns his livelihood as a daily wage worker and supports his wife and two children.

According to the victim’s wife, Champa Shukla Baidya, Pradip was returning home after work as usual when the incident occurred. As he reached near Bhadreshwari Kalibari in Bhoter Bazar, he was allegedly stopped by Bidyut Malakar, a resident of the same area.

It is reported that Bidyut Malakar had a pending claim of ₹30 from Pradip, which led to an argument between the two. During the altercation, Pradip reportedly told him that he did not have the money at that moment and would repay it the following day.

Allegedly enraged by this, Bidyut Malakar attacked Pradip from behind with a sharp weapon, striking him on the head. The blow caused a deep wound, leading to severe bleeding.

In a desperate attempt to save himself, the injured labourer ran to the nearby house of the village head for shelter. However, according to the family’s allegations, he did not receive assistance there and was instead sent back home.

Later, family members arrived at the spot after receiving the news. Despite tying four cloth towels around his head, they were unable to stop the bleeding, his wife said.

With the help of local residents, the family informed the Fire and Emergency Services. Rescue personnel rushed to the spot and transported Pradip to Unakoti District Hospital.

Hospital sources said he has received five stitches on his head. He is currently unable to speak properly and is also unable to eat.

The family has stated that due to severe financial hardship, they are unable to afford advanced medical treatment. His wife and children are also struggling to survive under extremely difficult conditions.

The following day, Champa Shukla Baidya filed a written complaint at Kailashahar Police Station. It has been alleged that the police initially did not show much urgency but later accepted the complaint.

Meanwhile, local sources claim that the village head is trying to shield the accused, Bidyut Malakar. Police have started an investigation into the incident.