Leader of the Opposition in Tripura, Jitendra Chaudhury, has written to Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Dhankar, alleging serious security lapses during a CPI(M) programme held at Chottakhola in Belonia, South Tripura district, on July 15. In his letter, Chaudhury sought an inquiry into the conduct of the South Tripura Superintendent of Police (SP) and demanded appropriate action.

According to Chaudhury, the programme was organised to commemorate the second martyrdom anniversary of CPI(M) leader Badal Shil, who was killed on August 12, 2024, after returning from filing his nomination papers for the 2024 three-tier Panchayat elections. He stated that the party had obtained prior permission from the police and had also requested adequate security during meetings with the District Magistrate and the SP on July 13. Chaudhury further claimed that he had spoken to the DGP on July 14 and was assured that necessary arrangements would be made for the peaceful conduct of the event.

In his complaint, the Opposition leader alleged that BJP supporters and anti-social elements assembled near the venue on the morning of July 15 and intimidated local residents to prevent them from attending the programme. He claimed that despite repeated requests by CPI(M) leaders for intervention, the police merely assured them that no untoward incident would occur.

Chaudhury further alleged that three vehicles carrying CPI(M) supporters were vandalised in the presence of police personnel as participants arrived at the venue, resulting in injuries to five or six party supporters. He also claimed that his attempts to contact the South Tripura SP during the incident went unanswered.

The letter additionally alleged that Chaudhury's convoy was stopped several times by police while he was travelling to the programme, delaying his arrival by more than an hour. He claimed that near Chottakhola market, the Additional SP, accompanied by a Deputy Collector and a large police contingent, prevented him from proceeding to the event venue.

Accusing the district police of failing to maintain law and order, Chaudhury alleged that instead of taking action against those responsible for the alleged disruption, the police obstructed the CPI(M) from conducting what he described as a lawful and constitutionally protected programme. He held the South Tripura SP responsible for what he termed security mismanagement, inaction, and administrative failure.

The Leader of the Opposition has urged the DGP to order a thorough inquiry into the incident and take appropriate action to ensure accountability. The allegations have been made by Chaudhury in his letter, while the police have not yet issued an official response on the matter.