Agartala, April 12, 2025: A protest march organized by the Joint Manch demanding the withdrawal of the Waqf Amendment Act turned chaotic on the Kailashahar highway on Saturday, leading to a confrontation with police and the injury of several individuals, including law enforcement personnel. The incident took place in the Kubjhar area, where police intercepted the procession, which was heading toward the old office of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate.
According to eyewitnesses, the protest march was scheduled to commence from Tilabazar and culminate at the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s former office. However, tensions flared when police halted the rally midway, citing security concerns. What began as a peaceful demonstration soon descended into chaos.
“Everything was going peacefully until we were stopped at Kubjar. We were only raising our democratic demand. Suddenly, the police intervened, and in the confusion, a scuffle broke out,” said a protester who requested anonymity.
Police sources confirmed that a minor lathicharge was used to disperse a section of protesters who allegedly became unruly. The move triggered a skirmish between the demonstrators and law enforcement, leaving several protesters and at least two police personnel injured.
Among those hurt was police constable Debjit Das, who reportedly sustained minor injuries during the confrontation. In the aftermath, police arrested around seven individuals believed to be involved in the disruption.
Unakoti District Police Officer and DIG Rathiranjan Debnath rushed to the scene immediately upon receiving reports of the incident. However, by the time he arrived, local authorities had managed to calm the situation.
DIG Debnath, speaking to reporters, said, “We are committed to maintaining peace and order. The situation was brought under control promptly, and we are now investigating the matter further. Those responsible for inciting violence will be dealt with as per the law.”
In response to the unrest, a significant deployment of security personnel has been put in place across the area. Teams from the Tripura State Rifles (TSR), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Border Security Force (BSF) have been stationed to prevent any further escalation.
A senior official confirmed, “The area is now under control. We have intensified security measures and are keeping a close watch to ensure no further disturbances occur.”
The Joint Manch, a coalition of social and political organizations, had announced the protest earlier this week to oppose the Waqf Amendment Act, which they argue undermines the rights of certain religious communities.
Despite the day’s turmoil, the Joint Manch vowed to continue its agitation through democratic means. “This will not deter us. Our demand is just, and we will pursue it through peaceful and constitutional methods,” said a spokesperson for the group.
