Agartala, Tripura – Tripura Director General of Police (DGP) Amitabh Ranjan has issued a strong statement in response to widespread concerns regarding the state’s law and order situation. In a recent press conference, the DGP categorically denied rumors and misinformation being circulated about alleged deterioration in public safety and security in the state, assuring citizens that the situation remains under control.
Ranjan’s remarks came after a series of incidents in Tripura sparked speculation on social media and in certain media outlets, claiming a rise in crime, communal tension, and unrest in various parts of the state. The DGP called these reports exaggerated and motivated, urging people to rely on verified sources of information instead of falling prey to rumors. He emphasized that the state police are actively maintaining peace and have a firm grip on the law and order situation.
Misinformation and Its Impact
The DGP stressed that the dissemination of false information can have dangerous consequences, particularly in a state like Tripura, which has a delicate social fabric. “There is a deliberate attempt by certain elements to spread panic among the public by exaggerating isolated incidents or completely fabricating stories,” he said.
One of the primary concerns highlighted was the spread of unverified claims on social media platforms, where videos, images, and messages were shared portraying violent incidents. Many of these were either misrepresented or taken out of context to create a narrative of unrest. Ranjan warned that such misinformation could spark unnecessary fear and even provoke conflicts in otherwise peaceful areas.
“The spread of falsehoods is not just a challenge for the police, but it affects the entire society. We appeal to the public not to believe everything they see on social media or other unofficial sources. Always verify before sharing or acting on such information,” he said.
Efforts to Maintain Peace and Security
Ranjan reaffirmed that the Tripura Police is fully equipped and prepared to tackle any law and order challenges that arise. He noted that the state’s law enforcement agencies are conducting regular patrolling, increasing surveillance, and engaging with local communities to ensure a peaceful environment.
He highlighted the recent actions taken by the police to maintain order. This included swift action in cases of unrest or crime, including detaining those responsible for spreading violence or communal hatred. Ranjan mentioned that the force remains vigilant and has already identified and taken legal action against individuals who have been spreading malicious content online.
“The safety of our citizens is our highest priority, and any attempt to disturb peace will be dealt with firmly. Our officers are on the ground, engaging with people to ensure the situation remains calm. We’ve successfully averted major disturbances in the past, and we will continue to do so,” he added.
The DGP also encouraged people to directly report any suspicious activities or misleading information to the police through official channels. He stated that the authorities are setting up dedicated helplines and social media channels for citizens to verify news before believing in or forwarding unsubstantiated claims.
Recent Incidents and Police Response
While acknowledging that there have been a few isolated incidents that drew attention, Ranjan clarified that these are not reflective of the overall law and order situation in Tripura. He stated that every society faces sporadic criminal activities, but Tripura, overall, has seen a relatively peaceful period in recent years.
For instance, the DGP pointed to a recent case of communal violence in a small area of the state, which was quickly brought under control by police intervention. The misrepresentation of such incidents as large-scale violence, he said, only serves to create a false narrative of chaos. He reiterated that Tripura is largely peaceful, with the majority of its population living in harmony.
Political Motivations Behind the Misinformation?
The DGP hinted at the possibility of political motivations behind the spread of misinformation, particularly with the state gearing up for upcoming elections. While he refrained from directly accusing any particular group, he noted that it is not uncommon for political actors to manipulate law and order narratives to gain traction among the electorate.
He urged people to stay calm and not get swayed by rumors during this sensitive time. “As elections approach, we are seeing a pattern of misinformation that aims to undermine public trust in the state’s institutions. This must be avoided,” he said.
Moving Forward: Vigilance and Trust
In his concluding remarks, the DGP emphasized the importance of public cooperation with law enforcement agencies. He urged citizens to stay vigilant and responsible in their use of social media and to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
He also expressed confidence in the state police’s ability to handle any challenges, reaffirming that Tripura remains a safe and secure state. “We are committed to ensuring peace and stability in Tripura, and we are counting on the public’s support to help us achieve this goal,” Ranjan concluded.
In an era where misinformation can spread rapidly and cause significant harm, the Tripura DGP’s appeal serves as a timely reminder for citizens to stay informed through reliable sources and trust the institutions that work to maintain peace and order.
