Manik Saha Calls Tripura Violence ‘Cancer’, Vows Action
Tripura CM Manik Saha. (Image X.com)
CM promises “surgery and chemotherapy” approach as Khowai unrest displaces families; ₹64.5 lakh relief announced
By NIRENDRA DEV
Agartala, April 22, 2026 — Manik Saha has strongly condemned the post-poll violence in Tripura, likening the situation to a “cancer” that must be dealt with decisively to restore peace and security.
Addressing the unrest in the Khowai district and other affected regions, the chief minister said the government would take all necessary measures to curb violence.
“Cancer cannot be allowed to grow for long. Sometimes surgery, even amputation, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy is needed,” he said, underlining a zero-tolerance approach.
Tensions escalated after the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council election 2026 results were declared on April 17. The Tipra Motha won 24 out of 28 seats, dealing a major setback to the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Since then, at least 13 major incidents of violence and several smaller clashes have been reported across the state. BJP workers were allegedly attacked, with many families displaced and forced into relief camps.
The state government has identified 258 affected families and announced ₹64.5 lakh in relief assistance. Many displaced families are currently sheltering at the Bhagat Singh Youth Hostel, where the chief minister met victims and assured compensation and protection.
Authorities have also formed special teams to visit affected districts and monitor the situation. Tripura DGP Anurag Dhyankar confirmed that strict action will be taken against those involved in violence.
Invoking the Tripura Recovery of Damages to Public Property Act 2021, the CM said damages to public and private property would be recovered from perpetrators and redistributed to victims.
Saha alleged that Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma’s party had “given shelter to hooligans,” a charge that adds to growing friction between the BJP and its ally Tipra Motha over the pending Tiprasa Accord.
Debbarma, however, issued a public appeal urging supporters to maintain peace, stating that “our culture is far older than politics.”
Meanwhile, state Congress president Asish Saha criticised the government, accusing it of failing to maintain law and order.
The unrest coincided with Garia Puja, an important festival for indigenous communities like the Tripuri and Reang tribes, traditionally associated with prosperity and harmony.
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