Tripura tribal polls see 78% voting; post-noon violence mars day
While polling remained largely peaceful in parts of North Tripura and Khowai districts, disruptions were reported from the Kulai-Champahour constituency.
Female turnout marginally exceeded that of male voters.
Agartala, April 13: Elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) on Sunday witnessed a significant voter turnout of around 78 percent, even as the law-and-order situation deteriorated sharply during afternoon hours amid escalating clashes allegedly between supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Tipra Motha in several areas.
According to official data, out of 9,51,613 registered voters, approximately 7,43,130 exercised their franchise. Female turnout marginally exceeded that of male voters, indicating strong public participation despite prevailing tensions.
However, the post-afternoon phase of polling was marred by widespread violence. Clashes, initially reported as isolated incidents, reportedly spread in Takarjala, Mandai, and Golaghati areas and eventually spread to Khumulwng by late afternoon.
Authorities confirmed serious disturbances in the 26-Birchandranagar–Kalashi constituency and other sensitive pockets.
Incidents of bomb explosions and vandalism were also reported from Olay Chhara under Shantirbazar subdivision, triggering panic among voters and prompting the deployment of central forces. While polling remained largely peaceful in parts of North Tripura and Khowai districts, disruptions were reported from the Kulai-Champahour constituency.
Allegations surfaced that Tipra Motha supporters prevented Bengali voters from casting their votes at certain booths. Eyewitnesses also claimed instances of intimidation in the presence of police, raising concerns over the enforcement response.
In Khumulwng, alleged clashes between rival groups further escalated tensions. Two bombs were reportedly hurled near Charan Pai SB School, forcing voters to flee, while several motorcycles were vandalised amid attempts to capture polling stations.
Security forces, including the Tripura State Rifles (TSR) and police, were deployed in large numbers to restore order. Additional Superintendent of Police Suman Majumdar supervised operations in the affected areas.
In a separate incident, BJP polling agents Uttam Debbarma and Ashok Kumar Chirang were allegedly assaulted at booths 34 and 35 in Golaghati constituency and later admitted to Bishramganj Hospital.
Clashes were also reported from booth number 42 in the Kulai-Champahour constituency over allegations of outsider voters, further aggravating the situation.
Despite the high turnout, the surge in violence in the latter half of polling has cast a shadow over the electoral process. Authorities remained on high alert as sporadic incidents continued to be reported from different parts of the State.
By
Correspondent