How is Tripura’s CM Saha Promoting Unity Between Tribal and Non-Tribal Communities?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tripura CM Manik Saha emphasizes the need for community harmony.
- The state government is proactive in addressing ethnic unrest.
- A relief package has been announced for those affected by violence.
- Seven individuals were arrested in connection with the unrest.
- Plans for rehabilitation are in place for victims.
Agartala, Nov 13 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tripura, Manik Saha, emphasized on Thursday the necessity for the Jaati (non-tribals) and Janajati (tribals) communities to coexist in peace. He assured that the government is vigilant in safeguarding the ethnic unity of the state.
The Chief Minister, who also oversees the home portfolio, vowed that no individuals involved in actions that threaten ethnic harmony will be spared, regardless of their status.
On Thursday, Saha, alongside senior officials, assessed the situation in violence-affected Santirbazar of Dhalai district, meeting with traders impacted by the unrest during the state-wide shutdown on October 23.
The shutdown, initiated by the BJP's ally Tipra Motha Party (TMP)-affiliated Tiprasa Civil Society (TCS) and led by TMP MLA Ranjit Debbarma, aimed to support an eight-point demand charter, including the expulsion of illegal migrants.
During this protest, certain TMP activists reportedly attacked individuals and officials at the Santirbazar market, resulting in serious injuries to over a dozen people.
The injured included Salema Block Development Officer Abhijit Majumdar, Kamalpur Sub-Divisional Police Officer Samudra Debbarma, engineer Animesh Saha, and trader Subrata Paul, all of whom required hospitalization for their critical injuries.
After visiting the market, Saha mentioned that the public desires stability, and both Jaati and Janajati communities aim to remain united.
“The strike on October 23, called by the Tiprasa Civil Society, led to unfortunate events in Santirbazar. This was a conspiracy, as similar incidents had occurred in Gandatwisa and other areas,” he stated.
He acknowledged that the general populace opposes such disturbances and noted that he monitored the situation overnight, dispatching police to the site. A prohibitory order under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, was enforced and lifted on October 31.
Seven individuals have been apprehended in connection with the events of October 23.
“The law will take its own course. I have visited the injured at the hospital, providing all possible assistance through the government helpline. Many have requested additional police stations and outposts, which I will discuss with the DGP and relevant officials,” Saha remarked.
A ministerial team has also visited Santirbazar to gather reports, which have been submitted to him.
“Numerous shops were vandalized, and people were attacked. I have consulted with the District Magistrate and the Chief Secretary to determine how we can assist the victims. Decisions are in place to ensure unity, as the public seeks peace. I am confident that such incidents will not recur,” the Chief Minister expressed.
Saha instructed the District Magistrate to act swiftly for the rehabilitation of those who incurred losses. He announced a relief package for the affected, stating that the government would allocate Rs 3 lakh for fully damaged properties, Rs 1.5 lakh for severely damaged ones, and Rs 15,000 for properties with partial damage.
He assured that necessary financial and medical aid would be extended to those injured during the turmoil.