Agartala: Jan 12. Congress leaders were allegedly stopped by police on Sunday from visiting violence-hit Shimultali under Fatikroy police station, triggering sharp criticism and raising questions over democratic rights and administrative neutrality.
Congress Legislative Party leader and MLA Birajit Sinha, accompanied by Unakoti District Congress president Md. Badruzzaman, attempted to visit the area to meet minority families affected by recent violence and arson. Party leaders claimed police prevented them from entering the locality and interacting with displaced residents.
“If speaking to victims of violence is treated as a crime, then democracy is clearly under threat,” Sinha said, accusing the administration of trying to suppress facts and shield the truth. He questioned the intent behind barring elected representatives from assessing ground realities.
Echoing similar concerns, Md. Badruzzaman said minority families were living in fear and uncertainty. “At a time when people need reassurance and support, stopping public representatives sends a dangerous message,” he remarked.
The violence, which broke out on Saturday, reportedly led to the burning and vandalising of several houses, shops and vehicles belonging to minority residents. Many families fled the area in panic, while those remaining continued to live under fear despite heavy police deployment.
Locals allege that confidence in the administration remains fragile, with political parties questioning why access to the affected area is being restricted. As tension persists in Shimultali, the incident has intensified debate over transparency, accountability and the right to stand with victims during crises.
