Agartala, October 21, 2024: Despite a surge in crime and violence across Tripura, Director General of Police (DGP) Amitabh Ranjan on Monday assured the public that the state’s law and order situation has significantly improved compared to previous years.

Speaking at the Police Commemoration Day event at Manoranjan Debbarma Smriti Stadium, AD Nagar Police Line in Agartala city, Ranjan stated, “If we look at the record of 10 years, there has been a radical change in law and order in the state compared to the previous days. Whenever there is news of any untoward incident, the police immediately take necessary action.”

Ranjan emphasized that the police remain uncompromising in their approach. “No one associated with crime is spared. There is no pressure on the police. The incidence of crime in the state has come down a lot,” he claimed, pointing to the reduced crime rate as evidence of their efforts.

However, recent incidents challenge the DG’s optimistic outlook. Throughout October 2024, the state has witnessed a spate of violent crimes, raising questions about the effectiveness of the current law enforcement strategies. Incidents include a scuffle over Puja subscriptions that led to vandalism in Kadamtala, a double murder in Agartala, the stabbing of a mobile shop owner, assaults on minors in Agartala, and threats by local mafias to families demanding they withdraw cases. Communal tensions have also flared, particularly in Pekuacherra in the North district and between Hindus and Muslims in Kailashahar under Unakoti district. Further complicating matters, the custodial death of 33-year-old Badal Tripura in Manubazar police station has sparked outrage.

In addition to these crimes, residents have voiced concerns over inadequate police patrolling, particularly at night, which has reportedly led to an increase in robberies and thefts. Many believe the spike in crime is linked to the escalating drug trade across the state.

The Tripura Human Rights Commission has taken notice of the rising tensions. It has launched an investigation into the custodial death and the stabbing of the businessman in Agartala, demanding a report from the Director General of Police.

The event was attended by Chief Secretary JK Sinha, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Anurag, and other senior police officials. While officials celebrated the state’s progress in police service, the rising number of crimes continues to cast a shadow over Tripura’s peace and security.