Opposition Left Front Files Nominations Amid Violence Concerns for Tripura Panchayat Polls

The Opposition Left Front has filed nominations for the upcoming three-tier Panchayat elections in Tripura, scheduled for August 8. Allegations of violence have marred the process, particularly in Nalchar under Sepahijala district. Vote counting is set for August 12.

The Opposition Left Front on Thursday submitted nominations across different parts of the state for the upcoming three-tier Panchayat elections. The primary focus was on the seats of Zilla Parishads. Scheduled for August 8, the votes will be counted on August 12.

In West Tripura, 17 Left candidates filed nomination papers, with District Magistrate and Collector Vishal Kumar receiving the documents. CPIM leader and former MP Sankar Prasad Datta mentioned that 16 more nominations are ready for filing. The Left Front candidates have also approached authorities in Agartala and Sonamura under Sepahijala district to submit their nominations. Datta added that nominations for Panchayat Samiti and Panchayat level positions would follow in the next two days.

However, the nomination process was reportedly marred by violence, particularly in Nalchar under Sepahijala district. CPIM Tripura state secretary and Leader of Opposition, Jitendra Choudhary, stated that party candidates faced harassment from the ruling party workers. Despite having contacted senior police officials, no positive response has been received from the administration.

Referring to the previous Panchayat elections, Choudhary highlighted that the ruling party had captured 96 per cent of the seats unopposed. He called upon the administration and the public to ensure fair polling this time. On the subject of a possible understanding with Congress, Choudhary clarified that the decision has been left to local leaders. In areas where Congress fields suitable candidates, the Left Front might abstain from contesting, prioritizing the main agenda of defeating the BJP.