Police detained Tripura Public Service Commission (TPSC) Chairman Retired Colonel Kush Kumar Sharma late Sunday night following a heated altercation at a city hotel hosting the 2nd Tripura Prabashi Summit.
According to police officials, Sharma was allegedly in an inebriated state and created a disturbance inside the hotel premises. His son was also involved in the incident. Police accused both of obstructing official duties and causing a commotion.
Authorities released Sharma early Monday morning on a personal bond after a medical examination.
Dispute Triggered Over Blocked Exit
Police sources said the trouble began when security personnel requested Sharma’s driver to move a vehicle. The vehicle had reportedly blocked the exit route of Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, who had attended the summit.
Officials said Sharma reacted aggressively to the request. The situation worsened when his son allegedly appeared in a half-dressed state and began abusing the minister and the people of Tripura.
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Family Members Allegedly Threatened Police
Police further stated that Sharma’s wife, daughter, and daughter-in-law also threatened on-duty personnel during the incident. This prompted senior officers to rush to the hotel to control the situation.
Those present included IGP (Intelligence) Krishnendu Chakaravorti, SP (West) Namit Pathak, and Officer-in-Charge of West Agartala Police Station Rana Chatterjee.
The Tourism Minister, who had stepped out after the event, attempted to defuse the situation. However, police alleged that Sharma questioned the minister’s identity and continued the confrontation.
Scuffle and Temporary Blockade
As tensions escalated, Sharma and his son allegedly scuffled with members of the minister’s security team. Police said two vehicles belonging to the family blocked the hotel exit.
The blockade briefly prevented the minister’s convoy from leaving the premises. Police intervened and later detained both Sharma and his son to restore order.
Chairman Declines Comment
When media personnel approached Sharma for a statement, he declined to comment.
“Nothing, nothing. I fell down, my finger has broken. No comments,” he said briefly.
Past Controversies and Strained Relations
Colonel Sharma assumed charge as TPSC Chairman in July 2023 after retiring from the Indian Army. Since then, he has faced several allegations of misconduct.
One earlier controversy involved an incident with a former High Court judge. Senior government officials indicated that relations between the state government and the TPSC have remained strained since Sharma’s appointment.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether further legal action will follow. Police said they are reviewing the incident and examining all statements and evidence.