Agartala, April 12: The politically significant elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) recorded an impressive voter turnout of over 81 percent, with more than 9.62 lakh eligible voters casting their votes across all eight districts to decide the fate of 173 candidates, including eight women.
The 30-member TTAADC, comprising 28 elected representatives and two nominated by the state government, administers nearly 70 percent of Tripura’s geographical area, making it the second most important constitutional body after the state Assembly.
According to State Election Commission (SEC) officials, polling concluded at 4 PM, with the turnout figure expected to rise slightly as final reports from all 1,257 polling stations are compiled. Despite a largely peaceful process, minor clashes were reported from Khowai, Sepahijala, and South Tripura districts, leaving around 10 party workers injured.
From early morning, voters—many in traditional attire—lined up outside polling stations, reflecting strong public participation. In several booths, voting continued beyond scheduled hours due to heavy turnout.
The elections follow a month-long high-voltage campaign marked by intense political rivalry and sporadic violence. Major contenders include the BJP, CPI(M)-led Left Front, Congress, Tipra Motha Party (TMP), and Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), along with independent candidates. Notably, BJP allies TMP and IPFT contested separately after failing to form an alliance.
To ensure smooth polling, over 13,500 security personnel, including Central Armed Police Forces, Tripura State Rifles, and state police, were deployed. Of the total polling stations, 311 were classified as highly critical and 693 as vulnerable.
The TTAADC, constituted under the Sixth Schedule in 1985, plays a crucial role in tribal development. The results are scheduled to be announced on April 17.
