A tragic incident unfolded in Tripura’s Sepahijala district on Saturday, where a 46-year-old man allegedly died by suicide after attacking his wife and daughter-in-law with a sharp object. Police have launched an investigation into the case to determine the motive behind the shocking act that has left the local community in disbelief.
According to officials, the incident occurred in the Jampuijala subdivision of Sepahijala district. The man, identified as Ratan Debbarma, reportedly attacked his family members inside their home during an argument before taking his own life.
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Police Confirm Incident, Probe Underway
A senior officer from Sepahijala Police Station confirmed that the accused’s body was discovered shortly after the attack. Both injured women were rushed to the nearby Bishalgarh District Hospital and later shifted to Agartala Government Medical College (AGMC) due to the severity of their injuries.
“We received information about a violent domestic altercation that resulted in two women sustaining severe injuries. The accused was found dead when the police arrived at the scene. We are treating it as a case of murder attempt followed by suicide,” the officer said.
The police have recovered the weapon used in the attack — believed to be a sharp-edged machete. Preliminary reports suggest that the man may have been suffering from mental stress or family disputes, although no suicide note was found at the scene.
Family and Neighbors in Shock
Neighbors described the family as generally quiet and hard-working. However, they admitted that occasional arguments between the couple were not uncommon.
A local resident said, “We heard loud screams from their house early in the morning. By the time we reached, the wife and daughter-in-law were lying injured, and he had locked himself inside another room. Later, we learned that he had ended his life.”
The news spread quickly across the neighborhood, drawing a large crowd to the site before police dispersed onlookers. The victims’ relatives expressed grief and confusion, saying that the incident had shattered the family.
Forensic and Medical Investigation Ordered
The forensic team from Agartala was called to examine the crime scene. Investigators collected fingerprints, blood samples, and the weapon used for further analysis.
Medical officers at AGMC stated that both women sustained deep injuries on their arms and shoulders but were out of danger after emergency treatment. Doctors emphasized the need for trauma counseling, as the women were “psychologically shaken” by the violence.
Meanwhile, police have sent the man’s body for postmortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. Officials said that the results would be crucial in confirming whether there was any external factor contributing to his death, such as poisoning or premeditation.
Possible Cause: Domestic Dispute and Mental Health Struggles
While the exact motive remains under investigation, police sources said that domestic quarrels may have triggered the attack. The accused reportedly faced financial difficulties and had been “under stress” for the past few weeks.
Authorities are also exploring whether the man suffered from mental health issues that went unaddressed. “We are speaking with relatives to understand his behavior in recent days. There are indications that he may have been battling depression,” the investigating officer said.
Experts in mental health have often pointed out that domestic stress and economic hardship are leading contributors to violent outbursts and suicides in rural areas. According to data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), family problems remain one of the top reasons behind suicide cases in India.
Rising Domestic Violence Concerns in Tripura
The incident has renewed concerns about domestic violence and mental health awareness in Tripura. Women’s rights groups have urged the state government to strengthen community counseling programs and early intervention systems for families in distress.
Activist Lopamudra Dey, who works with a local NGO, said, “Such incidents highlight the urgent need for emotional support services at the grassroots level. Many people suppress anger, anxiety, and frustration until it turns tragic.”
Tripura Police have also been conducting awareness campaigns on gender violence and conflict resolution in rural communities. The state’s Social Welfare Department is expected to look into the case for possible welfare support for the victims.
Administration Calls for Community Vigilance
Local authorities in Sepahijala have urged residents to report any signs of domestic conflict or mental distress to the police or health officials before it escalates. “Communities must not ignore warning signs,” said an administrative official. “Early reporting can prevent loss of life.”
The Tripura government has also been promoting mental health awareness through initiatives under the National Mental Health Programme (NMHP), which focuses on psychological support in rural health centers.
A Grim Reminder of Silent Struggles
The tragic incident in Sepahijala stands as a grim reminder of how unaddressed emotional turmoil can spiral into violence. As the investigation continues, police are ensuring that the survivors receive adequate medical and psychological care.
The state administration has promised to closely monitor the victims’ recovery and provide necessary support through welfare schemes. The community, meanwhile, continues to grapple with the shock of the event, calling for stronger measures to prevent similar tragedies.
