Tripura, 17 April 2025: A shocking incident of sexual harassment involving a female university student inside an autorickshaw in Agartala has triggered widespread outrage on social media. The incident, which occurred in broad daylight, led to the filing of an FIR on April 16. The matter gained significant attention after Tipra Motha leader and royal scion Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma raised the issue on Facebook, urging the party’s youth wing, Youth Tipra Federation (YTF), to assist law enforcement.
The victim, who boarded the auto from GB Bazar, was harassed by a co-passenger and later threatened after confronting him. The incident, partially recorded by the victim, has raised serious concerns about women’s safety in public transport. In a rapid turn of events that stirred emotions across the state, Tripura Police arrested the accused, identified as Shymal Das from Udaipur in Gomati district, on Thursday morning barely 12 hours after the FIR was filed.
His swift arrest has brought some relief to the agitated public, with many now demanding strict legal action and improved safety mechanisms for women. Sharing an update on social media, Pradyot Manikya wrote, “I spoke to the victim personally. She is happy and I informed her about the arrest and that justice has been delivered! This is the strength of unity as a society when we stand up against wrongful acts and people who think they can get away with anything. The look in the face of the man says it all. Thank you for your support, everyone.”
Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha also responded to the matter with a strong message, stating, “Addressing the recent social media incident with utmost seriousness, I directed police officials to take swift action and to bring the perpetrator to book. The accused has already been nabbed by the police. Our government prioritizes the safety and dignity of our daughters and mothers, ensuring zero tolerance for lawbreakers.”
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