Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has ordered a police investigation into allegations that a Member of District Council (MDC) of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) extorted ₹22 lakh from a government engineer.
The Commission issued the directive after taking cognisance of a local newspaper report published on February 23. The report alleged that MDC Hangsa Kumar Tripura coerced an Executive Engineer into surrendering a work order and handing over funds sanctioned for a road construction project.
Read More: Tripura’s Indigenous Kali Khasa Rice Gains National Buyers – Borok Times
Allegations Linked to Road Project
According to the report, the project involved constructing a 4-km road stretch from ADC village in a tribal colony area to Bhagyamani Royapara under the Chawmanu Sub-zonal office. The funds were reportedly allocated for development work in the region.
The newspaper claimed that the MDC pressured the engineer to withdraw from the project and transfer the sanctioned amount. The alleged incident raised concerns about misuse of public funds meant for infrastructure development.
Commission Takes Serious View
In its order, the THRC stated that the allegations involve public money and a public representative. The Commission observed that such claims warrant immediate and thorough scrutiny.
“The Commission has taken a serious view of the matter since it involves public money and extortion allegedly committed by a public representative,” the statement said.
The rights body emphasised that transparency and accountability must prevail in matters related to development projects, especially those targeting tribal and rural areas.
DGP Asked to Act
The Commission directed the Director General of Police (DGP) to examine the allegations. If found prima facie true, the police must lodge a First Information Report (FIR) and initiate legal proceedings.
The THRC has also sought an action-taken report within seven days from the police authorities. This move signals urgency in addressing the matter.
Additionally, the Commission has made several senior officials parties to the case. These include the Chief Executive Member (CEM) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the TTAADC, the Superintendent of Police of Dhalai district, and the Officer-in-Charge of Chawmanu Police Station.
The Commission has instructed these officials to submit detailed reports within two weeks.
Notice Issued to MDC
The THRC has issued a formal notice to Hangsa Kumar Tripura, enclosing a copy of the newspaper report for reference. The notice gives him an opportunity to respond to the allegations as part of due process.
Legal observers say the Commission’s intervention underscores the importance of safeguarding public funds and maintaining ethical conduct among elected representatives.
Political and Administrative Implications
The case has attracted attention in Tripura’s political and administrative circles. Allegations involving misuse of development funds often raise broader concerns about governance and oversight mechanisms.
If police register an FIR and proceed with the investigation, the case could have significant implications for accountability within autonomous district councils.
For now, authorities are expected to verify the claims and submit reports within the stipulated timelines. The outcome of the probe will determine the next course of action.
The THRC’s directive reflects its mandate to address issues involving public interest and alleged violations linked to abuse of authority.
Also Read: Mizoram to Conduct First Electoral Roll Overhaul Since 2004