Agartala, June 12: A family property dispute in the Khajurbagan area under New Capital Complex (NCC) Police Station has escalated into a major controversy, leaving two business establishments locked for several days and prompting multiple complaints before the police.
According to businessman Radhakanta Das, he and another entrepreneur rented two commercial spaces from property owner Bipul Debnath nearly four months ago after verifying the ownership documents and signing a formal rental agreement. The tenants had also deposited a security amount of ₹1 lakh before commencing operations.
Das stated that their businesses operated without any difficulty until June 10, when they arrived at their establishments and found both shops locked with an additional padlock. The affected businesses include Ayoti Food Point and Eat Hub, a nearby coffee shop.
He alleged that the lockout stemmed from an ongoing property dispute between landlord Bipul Debnath and his sister Shilpi Debnath, who had recently arrived from Kolkata. According to Das, when contacted, Bipul denied knowledge of who had placed the locks and suggested that they speak with his sister. Das claimed that Shilpi later admitted to locking the premises.
Following the incident, the tenants approached the New Capital Complex Police Station and informed authorities about the situation. Police reportedly advised them to contact the landlord and attempt to resolve the matter.
Das further alleged that the shops have remained closed for three consecutive days, resulting in substantial financial losses. As both establishments deal in food and beverages, perishable stock and raw materials stored inside the premises reportedly spoiled during the closure. He said the security deposit had been arranged through loans and borrowed funds, adding that the continued shutdown has placed severe financial pressure on the business owners.
He also claimed that on the night of June 10, police instructed the parties to allow tenants to remove perishable goods from the freezers. While collecting the items, Das alleged that threats were issued to his wife and business associates, warning them to remove all furniture and equipment from the premises.
Meanwhile, property owner Bipul Debnath levelled serious allegations against his sister Shilpi Debnath and other family members. He claimed that for several months he had been subjected to pressure over the distribution of family property and inheritance.
According to Bipul, the dispute revolves around properties allegedly distributed through a registered will executed by his late mother. He maintained that he had no objection to his sisters receiving the assets specifically allocated to them under the will but opposed demands for additional properties that he claims belong to him.
Bipul further alleged that after refusing to transfer certain properties, he became the target of multiple legal cases. He claimed that he was arrested in connection with allegations filed against him and spent over two weeks in jail before securing bail. He also alleged that threats of additional cases were used to pressure him into surrendering property rights.
The property owner additionally alleged that his residence was vandalized, commercial establishments were forcibly locked, and utility connections were disrupted while he was away from home. He claimed that he and his pregnant wife have been unable to reside at their residence due to fear of further confrontations.
Both sides have exchanged allegations regarding intimidation, unlawful locking of shops, and attempts to gain control over disputed property. The matter is currently before the police and is also linked to ongoing legal proceedings concerning ownership and inheritance rights.
Police have received complaints related to the incident. Further investigation is underway.
Disclaimer: The allegations and claims mentioned in this report are based on statements made by the concerned parties. The matter remains under investigation, and the allegations have not been independently verified.
