Festive cheer in Tripura has been overshadowed by mounting anger after a fire damaged the main gate of Neermahal, the state’s most iconic heritage site. Despite repeated demands for urgent road repairs ahead of Durga Puja, the Public Works Department (PWD) has failed to act, leaving several key routes in poor condition. The twin issues of crumbling infrastructure and unrest at Neermahal have dampened public sentiment during what is otherwise the grandest festival in the state.
Tensions escalated when members of Tipra Motha locked the gates of Neermahal and lodged a deputation at Melaghar police station, demanding strict action against those responsible for setting fire to the water palace’s entrance. Authorities confirmed that tourist entry has been suspended until further notice, citing security and safety concerns.
According to officials, the fire was reportedly caused by an electrical short circuit. However, Tipra Motha leaders alleged foul play and claimed that a conspiracy may be behind the incident. The party responded swiftly by temporarily sealing the gates, sparking debates across the state about the legality of their actions.
Political observers believe the incident may have wider implications. Some civil society groups and opposition leaders allege that the arson could be linked to attempts to reignite ownership and compensation disputes over Neermahal. Earlier, Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Debbarma had moved the Supreme Court seeking ownership rights and compensation, but the plea was dismissed, with the apex court declaring the palace as government property.
Critics argue that locking the palace without state authorization is unlawful and undermines tourism in Tripura. They emphasize that Neermahal, built in the 1930s by Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya and larger than Rajasthan’s Jal Mahal, is a national treasure that must remain accessible to the public.
“Neermahal is not the private property of anyone; it is the pride of Tripura and India. Whoever locked its gates and whoever set fire to it must face strict legal action,” said one protester at the site.
The incident has sparked widespread calls for immediate intervention from Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha and the Tourism Department. Citizens demand that culprits be brought to justice, and that stronger protective measures be implemented to preserve Tripura’s cultural heritage.