The Left Front has accused BJP and Tipra Motha workers of allegedly obstructing CPI(M) and other opposition candidates from filing their nomination papers for the upcoming Village Committee elections in several blocks of West Tripura district.

A delegation of Left Front leaders and workers met the West Tripura District Magistrate on Sunday and submitted a deputation, urging the administration to ensure a free, peaceful and secure environment for all candidates during the nomination process.

Addressing reporters, Left Front leader Manik Dey alleged that, except in Mandai block, ruling party-backed workers had been positioned in several parts of the district since September 1. He claimed that opposition candidates, particularly those belonging to the CPI(M), were facing threats and obstruction while attempting to submit their nomination papers.

Dey further alleged that in Hezamara block, nomination documents of some candidates were allegedly snatched and torn apart, with claims that even original documents were damaged.

The Left Front also alleged that candidates in Dukli block had received threatening phone calls warning that their houses would be set on fire if they proceeded with the nomination process.

According to the Left Front, an atmosphere of intimidation had allegedly developed in several blocks, including Old Agartala, Jirania, Belbari and Lefunga. The delegation urged the district administration to deploy adequate security and ensure that candidates can file their nominations without interference.

The Left Front also suggested that if sufficient security cannot be arranged at the designated nomination centres, the administration should consider shifting the process to alternative venues.

Dey said district administration officials heard their grievances and indicated that the demands were reasonable. However, officials reportedly informed the delegation that they could not take a decision independently and would consult the concerned authorities before communicating their decision.

The Left Front claimed that West Tripura district has 85 Village Committees with a total of 656 seats. It said the party is preparing to field candidates across all the seats and called upon the administration to ensure that every candidate is given an unhindered opportunity to submit nomination papers.