12-hour strike in Jampuijala & Takarjala sparks tension over arrest of Tipra Motha leaders

A 12-hour bandh called by Tipra Motha’s youth wing brought life to a standstill in Jampuijala and Takarjala on Tuesday, as supporters took to the streets demanding the release of arrested party leader Ranjit Debbarma. The strike, marked by road blockades, burning tyres, and shuttered shops, underscored the growing unrest in Tripura’s tribal belt.

The bandh was announced after police arrested Debbarma, Chairman of Jampuijala ADC Village, in connection with the vandalism of a BJP office during a victory procession on Sunday. Protesters allege the arrest was politically motivated, warning that unless he is freed unconditionally, the agitation will intensify.

The incident has already widened into a larger confrontation. Police have registered cases against 16 individuals, including Tipra Motha MLA Biswajit Koloi and MDC Suraj Debbarma, following the destruction of the BJP office in Jampuijala market. Despite heavy police presence, the office could not be protected, prompting Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha to order strict action.

In a dramatic fallout, the Officer-in-Charge of Jampuijala Police Station, Mrinal Kanti Reang, was suspended for failing to control the situation, and a new officer was swiftly appointed under senior supervision.

The bandh disrupted normal life across the region, with government offices, schools and transport services affected. Commuters were stranded as vehicles stayed off the roads, while police forces were deployed in sensitive areas to prevent escalation.

The BJP has strongly condemned the attack on its office, calling it a deliberate attempt to destabilize peace. Meanwhile, Tipra Motha leaders insist the arrests are part of a political crackdown, framing the bandh as a fight for justice.

With police under pressure to arrest the remaining accused and rival parties trading accusations, the situation remains volatile. The strike has once again highlighted the fragile political climate in Tripura’s tribal areas, where factional clashes often spill into public life, raising concerns over governance and stability.