Tripura Police have stepped up security across the state, especially in Agartala, ahead of the 24-hour bandh on October 23. Several civil society groups, reportedly aligned with Tipra Motha and led by MLA Ranjit Debbarma, have called the shutdown.
To maintain order, police, paramilitary forces, and Tripura State Rifles (TSR) personnel will guard all sensitive areas. Moreover, security teams will monitor government offices where bandh supporters plan to hold picketing under Ranjit Debbarma’s leadership. His close ties with Tipra Motha supremo Pradyot Kishore Debbarma have often been compared to the “Modi–Amit Shah” partnership.
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Protest Against Illegal Infiltration
The bandh aims to protest against the alleged infiltration of Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas into Tripura. Protesters are also demanding strict implementation of a Home Ministry circular that orders the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants.
Speaking to reporters, MLA Ranjit Debbarma said, “Continuous infiltration from Bangladesh threatens Tripura’s social, economic, and political stability. Tribal areas face the greatest risk. The demographic balance already tilts against indigenous tribals, and land encroachment adds to their worries. Therefore, infiltration must stop immediately.”
Furthermore, the organizers have exempted emergency and essential services such as ambulances, fire brigades, and milk supply. They also assured that no protester would block these services during the bandh.
Government’s Stand and Political Silence
The state government, on its part, has announced that all government and private offices will operate normally on October 23. However, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has remained silent on the bandh. So far, the party has neither condemned nor supported the move, which has raised curiosity among political observers.
Officials, meanwhile, have assured citizens that normal life will continue. Even so, tension remains high in tribal-dominated regions, where the bandh may have a stronger impact.
CM’s Statement on Infiltration
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha recently addressed the issue in the Assembly. According to him, security agencies have caught more than 3,500 Bangladeshi and Rohingya infiltrators over the past three years. “Over 95 percent have already been sent back through legal procedures, while the remaining ones will be deported soon after court approval,” he said.
In addition, CM Dr. Manik Saha mentioned that the state government is working closely with central agencies to strengthen border vigilance and curb further infiltration.
Police Strengthen Ground Operations
To ensure peace, senior officers have directed all district units to stay on alert. Mobile patrols, drone monitoring, and roadside checkpoints will remain active in and around Agartala. TSR jawans and CRPF personnel will also guard marketplaces, transport hubs, and key government buildings.
Moreover, police have urged citizens to remain calm and avoid unlawful gatherings. “We will ensure people’s safety and the smooth flow of essential services,” said a senior officer.
Mixed Public Reaction
The bandh has drawn mixed responses from the public. While several tribal organizations have expressed support, many urban residents fear disruptions in daily life. Traders and transport operators also worry about financial losses, especially since the festive season is underway.
Consequently, political analysts believe the bandh could serve as a test of Tipra Motha’s strength against the ruling BJP. It may also indicate the growing influence of the regional party in Tripura’s tribal politics.
As the state braces for the shutdown, authorities and citizens alike hope for a peaceful day without violence or property damage.
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