Four injured as clash breaks out between BSF personnel and locals in Tripura's Sepahijala

Tension broke out near Ashabari Gram Panchayat in Tripura's Sepahijala district on Monday morning, November 2, after a dispute between local residents and Border Security Force (BSF) personnel over an alleged smuggling-related issue escalated into a clash, leaving at least four people injured.

According to preliminary information, the altercation took place near the Ashabari Border Outpost (BOP), under the BSF's 49 Battalion. During the confrontation, a BSF jawan allegedly assaulted a local resident, identified as Hefzur Rahman, with a lathi, triggering anger among villagers.

Following the incident, agitated residents blocked the Boxanagar-Rahimpur road, disrupting vehicular movement in the area.

The situation further deteriorated when Assistant Commandant Rohit Kumar of Rahimpur BOP, who arrived at the spot along with other personnel, was allegedly attacked by members of the crowd. His vehicle was also vandalised, police sources said.

The arrival of additional BSF personnel subsequently led to a clash between security forces and local residents.

Assistant Commandant Rohit Kumar and three others sustained injuries during the confrontation. The injured were initially taken to the Boxanagar Primary Health Centre (PHC) for medical attention before leaving for their respective destinations, police said.

The situation has since returned to normal, according to the latest information. A case is likely to be registered in connection with the incident, while further details are awaited.