Tensions flared in Agartala on Sunday after a Youth Congress protest march demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and raising concerns over the alleged NEET examination scam was stopped by security forces near the Chief Minister’s official residence.

The demonstration was organized to protest against what the Youth Congress described as rising corruption, soaring prices, growing unemployment, and administrative failures in the state. Hundreds of party workers and supporters participated in the rally, which began in the city and proceeded toward the Chief Minister’s residence.

The situation escalated when the procession reached the vicinity of IGM Hospital, where police had set up barricades to prevent protesters from advancing into the high-security zone surrounding the Chief Minister’s residence. According to reports, demonstrators attempted to breach the barricades and move forward, prompting security personnel to intervene.

Police initially used water cannons to disperse the crowd. However, as protesters continued their attempt to advance, security forces, including CRPF personnel, intensified their response. Youth Congress leaders alleged that police also resorted to a baton charge, resulting in injuries to several demonstrators.

Eyewitnesses reported that a number of protesters sustained injuries during the confrontation, with some seen bleeding at the scene. The injured were later provided medical assistance.

Condemning the police action, Youth Congress leaders accused the administration of using excessive force to suppress a democratic movement. They maintained that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right and alleged that the government was attempting to silence opposition voices.

The incident has triggered sharp political reactions across Tripura. Opposition leaders questioned the administration’s handling of the protest, arguing that similar firmness is not always displayed against criminal activities or drug-related offenses.

Meanwhile, police defended their actions, stating that the measures were necessary to maintain law and order and ensure the security of the Chief Minister’s residence. Officials said all steps taken were aimed at preventing unauthorized entry into a protected area.

Although normalcy was restored later in the day, the incident has sparked fresh political controversy, with opposition parties expected to raise the issue more aggressively in the coming days.