Tripura Violence: Allegations of Arson Against Muslim Community in Fatikroy
An uneasy calm spread across Tripura’s Fatikroy on Saturday as residents from the Saidarpara–Shimultala and Kumarghat areas reported incidents of arson targeting Muslim-owned homes, shops, and a mosque. These events occurred after members of the Muslim community were allegedly harassed by Hindutva groups soliciting funds for an upcoming Hindu religious event.
Witnesses described the violence as perpetrated by a group of Hindutva activists amid rising communal tensions in the region. Locals alleged that police were present during the incidents but did not intervene effectively, leading to a sense of fear and abandonment among community members.
Families affected by the reported arson claimed they have been left devastated and displaced, with many losing their residences and livelihoods. “People have lost everything and are struggling to cope,” stated affected residents.
The events have raised significant concerns regarding the administration’s response in Tripura, particularly in an area represented by local MLA and state minister Sudhanshu Das. Citizens have called for accountability, citing this episode as indicative of administrative failure. As of now, there has been no official response from the district administration or law enforcement agencies.
An eyewitness from the Saidarpara–Shimultala area relayed, “They attacked our area and set fire to a mosque, along with our homes and shops. The police were present but did nothing to stop it.”
Masebbir Ali, who is currently hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the violence, detailed the escalation that began with a demand for donations. He recounted how he was assaulted when he could not meet the immediate monetary request: “They came asking for donations. I told them I had already given money and could give more in a few days. But they didn’t listen and wanted the money at that moment, in any way. Then they started beating me.”
Ali alleged that the assailants were armed with various objects used to strike him. After being attacked, he claimed that his home was subsequently set ablaze along with agricultural equipment. He also noted that police officers were present during the arson but did not intervene. “The police were standing there when my house was being burned,” he said. “They did nothing.”
Community leader Maulana Abdul Malik described the violence, stating it erupted early in the morning with demands for religious donations. “Some people from a temple club came asking for chanda. When residents questioned them or said they had already paid, they began fighting,” he explained.
Malik reported that the confrontation escalated rapidly into widespread violence, resulting in the destruction of multiple homes, shops, and even the Saidur Para Mosque. “They didn’t stop at beating people,” he said, adding that vehicles and a tractor were also targeted.
Residents voiced their concerns regarding the delayed police intervention, which they believe allowed the situation to worsen. They are now demanding a fair investigation and accountability, emphasizing that the violence has left deep scars on the community and raised serious doubts about their safety and access to justice.
Calls made by Maktoob to the Kumarghat police for comment went unanswered. The local community is now grappling with the aftermath of these events, seeking justice and protection in a fraught environment.
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