Violence Over Temple Levy Rocks Kumarghat, Curbs Imposed
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Kumarghat
- Jan 10, 2026
- 672
Authorities imposed prohibitory orders across Kumarghat subdivision in Tripura’s Unakoti district on Saturday after violent clashes erupted between two groups over an alleged forced subscription linked to a local Shiva temple. The unrest left at least five to six persons injured and caused extensive damage to residential and commercial properties, including a timber shop and a mosque.
Officials said the violence was triggered in Saidarpar, within the jurisdiction of Fatikroy police station, when a group of youths intercepted a timber-laden vehicle and demanded a monetary contribution for a temple. The driver subsequently contacted timber merchant Masabbir Ali, who asserted that the required subscription had already been paid.
What began as a verbal altercation quickly spiralled into violence, with the youths allegedly assaulting Masabbir Ali and the driver, both of whom sustained injuries. As word of the incident spread, members of another community converged at the location, escalating the situation into a full-blown clash between the two groups.
During the violence, Masabbir Ali’s timber shop was set ablaze, with the fire engulfing three adjacent houses. A nearby mosque was also vandalised amid the chaos, officials confirmed.
Senior district officials, including the District Magistrate, rushed to the scene accompanied by reinforced police units. Law enforcement personnel resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the mobs and restore order.
Unakoti District Magistrate Tamal Majumder stated that the situation has since been brought under control. To prevent further escalation, paramilitary forces comprising the Assam Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), and Tripura State Rifles (TSR) have been deployed across sensitive areas.
Prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita have been enforced throughout Kumarghat subdivision, while internet services have been suspended for 48 hours as a precautionary measure.
Police have registered a suo motu case in connection with the incident, and at least eight individuals have been detained for questioning. Authorities said intensive patrolling is underway, and the situation remains under close surveillance.