Speaking defiantly outside the Agartala airport, Sushmita Dev said the TMC delegation would reach the party office “with or without vehicles.” “If we are not allowed to move by car, we will walk. If walking is stopped, we will march on foot. Nothing can stop our fight for democracy,” she declared.
Her statement reflected the growing frustration among TMC leaders over what they allege is a pattern of obstruction and intimidation by the state government. “Tripura is part of India, not an island of fear. We will continue to raise our voices against the BJP’s authoritarian rule,” Dev added.
The delegation included senior TMC functionaries from both Tripura and West Bengal. Who expressed solidarity with local leaders reportedly injured during the incident.
TMC Accuses BJP of Political Intimidation
The Trinamool Congress alleged that the BJP-led Tripura government is systematically targeting opposition workers to weaken the party’s organizational strength in the state. According to TMC leaders, several party banners were torn down, and the office premises were damaged by “unidentified miscreants” late Tuesday night.
Sushmita Dev claimed that police inaction has emboldened such attacks. “The Tripura Police is working as a political tool instead of protecting citizens. Law and order have collapsed,” she said.
She urged the Election Commission of India and Union Home Ministry to take note of the “deteriorating democratic situation” in Tripura. “Elections cannot be fair when opposition parties are not allowed to function freely,” Dev asserted.
Meeting with DGP Over Security Concerns
Following her arrival, Dev led a delegation to meet the Director General of Police (DGP) of Tripura to lodge a formal complaint and demand greater protection for TMC offices and workers.
During the meeting, the TMC team sought assurances that political gatherings would not be disrupted. Further, that investigations into the alleged attack would be impartial.
The DGP reportedly assured the delegation of a fair probe and stated that necessary measures would be taken to maintain law and order across the state.
Dev, however, said that the TMC would “closely monitor” the situation to ensure that justice is delivered.
BJP Denies Allegations, Calls It “Political Drama”
In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party dismissed the TMC’s allegations as “baseless and politically motivated.” A BJP spokesperson said that the ruling party has nothing to gain from such incidents. And accused the TMC of “creating false narratives” to attract attention.
“The people of Tripura have rejected the politics of violence and chaos. TMC is trying to import West Bengal-style politics into our peaceful state,” the spokesperson said.
The BJP also emphasized that Tripura remains politically stable under Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha’s leadership and that law enforcement agencies are functioning independently.
Growing Tensions Between TMC and BJP in Tripura
Political tensions between the BJP and TMC have intensified in recent months as the latter attempts to expand its influence in Tripura. The state, which has a strong BJP base, has seen sporadic confrontations between workers of both parties.
TMC leaders allege that their outreach programs and rallies are being obstructed by the ruling party. While BJP leaders argue that the TMC is deliberately instigating conflicts for publicity.
Observers note that the confrontation could escalate as both parties gear up for upcoming local body and assembly elections.
TMC’s Focus on Democratic Rights
Sushmita Dev reiterated that her party’s fight in Tripura is not merely political but a “battle for democratic rights.” She accused the BJP of eroding institutions and silencing dissent.
“We are not afraid of violence. Our goal is to protect the democratic values of the Indian Constitution. Every Tripura citizen deserves the right to speak freely and participate in politics without fear,” she said.
Dev added that the TMC would continue its organizational work across districts, mobilizing support from tribal and youth groups who, according to her, are “disillusioned with BJP’s broken promises.”
Public Response and the Road Ahead
The incident has drawn mixed reactions from citizens and civil society groups. Some have condemned the violence and urged authorities to ensure free political expression. While others believe both parties should prioritize dialogue over confrontation.
Political analysts suggest that Sushmita Dev’s strong presence in Tripura signals the TMC’s intent to consolidate its position in the Northeast. Her bold statements and street-level activism could energize the party’s cadre ahead of the elections.
However, experts also warn that Tripura’s polarized political environment could lead to further clashes unless both sides exercise restraint.
As the TMC intensifies its campaign and the BJP defends its governance record, Tripura is emerging once again as a focal point of political tension in the Northeast. For now, Sushmita Dev’s message remains clear “Car or no car, we’ll walk towards our office.” The symbolic statement underscores her party’s resolve to challenge the BJP’s dominance and reclaim what she calls the “spirit of democracy” in Tripura.