Agartala, Apr 01: Tension prevailed in the Lambu area under Kamalpur sub-division of Tripura’s Dhalai district on Wednesday following a violent attack allegedly launched by the supporters of Tipra Motha.

The attack left several police and TSR personnel injured. Besides, several vehicles were vandalized.

According to reports, the incident took place when BJP workers, led by Kamalpur MLA Manoj Kanti Deb, were campaigning in support of Ananta Debbarma, the party’s candidate from the Halahali–Asharambari constituency for the upcoming TTADC elections. Debbarma recently quit Tipra Motha and joined the BJP.

Tension gripped the area after the MLA along with the candidate and others reportedly came under attack. 

Local sources claimed that 5 to 6 vehicles were vandalised during the violence. The BJP MLA and candidate Ananta Debbarma, were also reportedly targeted. Both leaders, however, are said to have escaped without injuries.

Local people said, the attackers, more than 200 people, were armed with lethal weapons.

When police and Tripura State Rifles personnel attempted to bring the situation under control, they too allegedly faced aggression. At least 12 police and TSR personnel were reported to have sustained injuries in the incident. They were immediately taken to the hospital.

Following the clash, additional security forces were rushed to the area and intensive patrolling was initiated to prevent further escalation. 

However, no official statement from police authorities was available till the filing of this report.

The incident has heightened political tension in the region ahead of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) elections, scheduled to be held on April 12, with vote counting slated for April 17.