Source: BD News 24
As thousands of tribals marched towards Agartala’s Vivekananda Stadium to observe the ‘Sixth Schedule Day’, clashes erupted in Colonel Choumani and some other parts of the town.
On this day, the provisions of the Sixth Schedule were extended to Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous Council.
Police said at least 20 people, mostly tribals, were injured in the clashes. Some were in serious condition.
Prohibitory orders were clamped on Agartala to help control the situation.
The IPFT has said they will observe the day to back their demand for separate ‘Twipraland’.
By midday, traffic in Agartala had come to a standstill with thousands of IPFT supporters marching from various directions into Agartala.
Tripura police chief K Nagraj appealed for peace and said “nobody should respond to rumours”.
Camerapersons have shot video of IPFT supporters being beaten up by agitated locals. Police tried to rescue the IPFT supporters facing local ire and at least one police vehicle was smashed.
But most TV channels were exercising restraint in using footage of the clashes.
TSR jawans were seen chasing locals who were trying to attack IPFT supporters, but in some areas, police were evidently slow to react.
Tension prevails in Agartala but authorities say the situation is now under control.
