Agartala, Tripura : A tense situation unfolded at the Nagerjala Bus Stand in Agartala on Wednesday following a workers' protest that allegedly escalated into a violent confrontation. According to reports, at least three to four people sustained injuries during the incident, triggering concern and heightened tension in the area.
The protest was organized by members of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), who raised several longstanding grievances regarding the functioning of the Nagerjala Bus Stand, located under the 8 No. Town Bardowali area. Protesters alleged that issues such as illegal extortion, exploitation of workers, substance-related activities, and various administrative irregularities had persisted at the bus terminal for an extended period.
As part of the agitation, bus services at the stand were temporarily suspended from around 8 a.m., causing inconvenience to commuters and transport operators.
Protesters Allege Assault During Demonstration
According to the demonstrators, the protest was met with resistance when a group of youths allegedly attacked the workers participating in the movement. Several workers and labour leaders reportedly suffered injuries during the confrontation.
The protesters further alleged that the attackers were closely associated with local political figures and claimed that the assault was carried out with their support. However, these allegations remain unverified, and police investigations are currently underway.
Labour Leader Raises Serious Allegations
Among those injured was labour leader Liton Kar, who accused authorities of neglecting workers' concerns at the bus stand for years. Speaking to the media, Kar alleged that there is no proper drinking water facility for workers despite funds being collected from them under various heads.
He further claimed that there is a lack of transparency regarding the utilization of these funds and alleged that the attack occurred because workers had raised their voices against these issues.
Kar also levelled serious allegations against Ward No. 33 Councillor Abhijit Mallik, claiming that the councillor was connected to the incident. Additionally, he accused Mallik of involvement in extortion and other anti-social activities in the area.
During his remarks, Kar made further claims regarding past electoral practices. These statements have not been independently verified, and no official findings have been released concerning those allegations.
Police Intervene, Injured Shifted to Hospital
Police personnel were reportedly present at the scene when the clash erupted. Authorities intervened promptly to bring the situation under control and arranged medical assistance for the injured individuals.
Law enforcement agencies have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the confrontation and identify those responsible.
Councillor Rejects Allegations
Responding to the accusations, Ward No. 33 Councillor Abhijit Mallik strongly denied all allegations made against him.
Speaking to reporters, Mallik described the claims as baseless and politically motivated. According to him, tensions arose after bus services were halted during the protest, which eventually led to the unfortunate incident.
The councillor also stated that some of the individuals making allegations against him have faced complaints and legal cases in the past. He maintained that neither he nor any of his supporters had any involvement in the clash.
BMS Demands Arrest of Alleged Accused
As of the time of filing this report, no arrests had been made in connection with the incident. Police officials continue to investigate the exact cause of the confrontation and determine who was involved.
Meanwhile, later in the evening, BMS members submitted a memorandum to the Superintendent of Police, West Tripura, demanding the arrest of Councillor Abhijit Mallik, whom they have identified as the principal accused, along with others allegedly connected to the incident.
Labour leaders also announced a work stoppage at the Nagerjala Bus Stand scheduled for Thursday, signaling that the dispute may continue unless their demands are addressed.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as investigations proceed and efforts are made to maintain law and order in the area.
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