Allegations of violence and irregularities mar Tripura ADC polls: Left parties raise concerns

The Tripura Left Front and opposition CPI (M) state leadership have alleged widespread violence, voter intimidation, and electoral irregularities during the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (ADC) elections held across the state on Sunday.

In a statement issued by the Tripura Left Front Committee, it was claimed that clashes between supporters of the ruling BJP and their alliance in state government Tipra Motha Party (TMP)  took place in several polling locations. Polling agents of Left Front candidates were allegedly obstructed from entering polling booths and, in some cases, forcibly evicted. Reports of voter intimidation and attempts to influence voters were also highlighted in the statements.

The statement further alleged that in certain areas, proxy voting incidents were reported. The Left Front questioned the role of the State Election Commission (SEC) and security forces, claiming that their failure to ensure a free and fair election was evident. Despite these challenges, the committee congratulated voters for turning out in large numbers to exercise their democratic rights.

Meanwhile, the CPI (M) Tripura state secretariat, in a separate statement, pointed out that although polling in districts like West Tripura, Sepahijala, and Gomati witnessed disturbances, the election process in other districts remained largely peaceful.

The party accused Tipra-Motha and BJP workers of creating obstructions in several booths, preventing polling agents from performing their duties. In some instances, polling agents were allegedly forced out of booths. There were also reports of organized vote rigging and intimidation of voters in different areas.

The statement further alleged that deliberate unrest created by Tipra-Motha and BJP led to incidents of violence in parts of West Tripura, Sepahijala, and Gomati districts, with claims that some BJP MLAs were directly involved.

Despite these allegations, CPI(M) acknowledged the courage and determination of voters, stating that their active participation in the electoral process reflects a strong commitment to democratic values.

The party also extended heartfelt congratulations to voters for their conscious and courageous role in defending democratic rights during the elections.