Unidentified men threaten Tripura legislator Philip Reang at MLA hostel in Agartala, probe launched

“I informed the SP. This is a serious threat. There are 42-45 MLAs in the hostel. Today, it happened to me. It may happen to others someday. I think the chief minister should look into the matter. This is a security lapse,” Reang said on Monday.

Taking to Facebook, he wrote, “New MLA Hostel is not safe for MLAs. I was threatened today around 10 pm by unknown 3-4 person who are all drunken just infront of my room. Who should take responsibility of the security lapses?”

On Tuesday morning, Anurag Dhyankar, Director General of Police (DGP), arrived at the MLA hostel with a team of police officers to inquire about the incident and review the security measures.

Speaking to reporters, the DGP said, “There was some argument between MLA Philip Reang and some people yesterday. The people involved have been identified. They came to the hostel as someone’s guests. We are investigating the matter.”

A six-member delegation of TIPRA Motha MLAs, including Reang, met Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Tuesday at the Civil Secretariat to highlight the incident. After the meeting, Reang spoke to mediapersons and said, “I was talking to my family outside my room at night when three-four drunk youths threatened me with dire consequences. They were unknown to me, but later I came to know that they came to visit BJP legislator Pramod Reang at the MLA hostel.”

Pointing out security lapses at the hostel, TIPRA Motha MLA Ranjit Debbarma said no proper records were maintained for vehicles entering the premises. “We demand to strengthen the security at the MLA hostel. The CM has assured us that it will be done. We also talked to the DGP, who assured us that they are looking into the matter seriously,” he said.

TIPRA Motha legislator Brishaketu Debbarma said they also spoke to the Inspector General (Law and Order). “This is not only about Philip Reang, but it has exposed a threat to all MLAs.”

Later, MLA Reang filed a complaint at New Capital Complex (NCC) police station against four persons.

“I have lodged complaint against four persons including Prateek Debbarma, Ajay and two others. The police assured us to look into the matter legally”, said Reang.

When asked, whether he will sort it out outside if they seek apology, Reang said, “We shall see in future. But till now, no positive response came from them.”