At least four BJP workers, including the vice president of the BJP ST Morcha, and one journalist sustained injuries following a clash during a cloth distribution programme at Hezamara under Mohanpur subdivision in West Tripura district.

According to BJP state general secretary Bipin Debbarma, the incident took place when party leaders were preparing to distribute clothes among women ahead of Durga Puja. 

He alleged that workers of the Tipra Motha Party were involved in the attack. 

“It was a social programme, not a political one. Unfortunately, our workers came under attack,” Debbarma said.

BJP ST Morcha vice president Mangal Debbarma, who suffered head injuries, is undergoing treatment at GB Pant Hospital in Agartala. 

He claimed that the violence was an attempt by Tipra Motha workers to disrupt their activities.

Former Chief Minister and MP Biplab Kumar Deb visited the injured at the hospital. He said an FIR had been filed and called for strict action against those responsible. 

“One journalist, Mangal Debbarma, and several others were injured. I have also spoken with Tipra Motha founder Pradyot Kishore Manikya, who is currently abroad,” he stated.

Police said they are investigating the matter.