The Tripura Left Front Committee on Tuesday accused the recent elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) of being marred by widespread violence and alleged rigging. 

The party has called for strict security measures during the counting process, including the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), installation of CCTV cameras, and protection for counting agents.

Polling for the 28-member council was conducted on April 12, with vote counting scheduled for April 17.

Addressing a press conference, Left Front Committee Convener Manik Dey said that prior to the election, the party had urged the State Election Commission (SEC) to take several steps to ensure a free and fair process. These included deploying CAPF at all polling booths, using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) equipped with VVPAT, providing security for polling agents, ensuring equal campaigning opportunities for all parties, and enabling webcasting.

However, according to Dey, only a limited number of CAPF personnel were deployed. He alleged that law and order deteriorated ahead of polling day due to clashes between BJP and Tipra Motha supporters, creating an atmosphere of fear among voters. He also questioned the use of EVMs brought from Madhya Pradesh without VVPAT, saying this had raised public concerns. Reports of EVM malfunctions during voting further added to doubts, he claimed.

Dey accused the SEC of failing to conduct a free and fair election, alleging that outsiders entered polling areas and that even three MLAs and a minister—who were not voters in those areas—were present. He demanded action against them.

The Left Front has now raised concerns about the upcoming counting process, citing past incidents such as alleged capture and disruption of counting centres. The party has urged authorities to ensure heavy CAPF deployment in and around counting halls, provide safe passage for counting agents, install CCTV surveillance, and maintain strict security.

Additionally, the party warned of possible post-result violence and has demanded continued CAPF presence and patrolling for at least two months after the results are declared.