Security cut to transport cash & arms in poll-bound Tripura: Opposition

The opposition Congress on Tuesday demanded an inquiry into the report of relaxing security checking of vehicles from Monday evening to Tuesday early morning on different entry roads of the city including on Agartala-Akhura road (approach road from Bangladesh).

Congress Spokesperson Prasanta Bhattacharjee alleged with the direction of local police officers Central Paramilitary Force (CPF) personnel were suddenly found reluctant in checking for a few hours. Meantime, a large number of vehicles from other parts of the state and from Bangladesh border entered the city without security hindrance.

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“We apprehend a huge amount of cash infused by the ruling BJP and arms were brought to the city to influence the voters and create terror during the elections. ECI had taken some appreciable security measures against the attacks and violence by BJP cadres on opposition a week ago. But gradually, the security action becomes relaxed, and ruling party goons resumed their activities in last two days,” Bhattacharjee alleged.

He pointed out that in presence of CPF, BJP cadres have attacked the houses of CPI(M) supporters in Khayerpur, Nalchar, and Bamutia constituencies in last two days. There was a threat and intimidation to the opposition voters in the city, and the movement of arms has been reported.

“ECI has deployed 200 companies of CPF so far and another 200 companies are reaching soon to ensure free, fair, and peaceful election to Tripura assembly. But unless the commanding officers of the state police at the police station level don’t take action against the criminals and trouble mongers – the election will be marred by violence,” he added.

Meanwhile, the opposition CPI(M) sought action from ECI against a polling officer identified as Amar Lal Saha who was found walking in the procession of submitting nominations of BJP candidates in Khowai on Monday wearing a saffron scarf.

A video was also gone viral on social media. Seeking his removal from election duty, the party demanded legal action against the erring employee for violating service conduct rules and the election code as well.