Tripura High Court takes suo motu cognizance of violence stemming from VHP rally

The Tripura High Court on Friday took suo motu cognizance of communal violence that occurred in North Tripura, Unakoti and Sipahijala Districts on October 26.

A Bench of Chief Justice Indrajit Mahanty and Justice S Talapatra directed the State to file affidavits explaining the preventive measures taken for scuttling the design of stoking communal passion.

The violence stemmed from a rally carried out by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) against the vandalism of Durga Puja pandals and Hindu temples in Bangladesh. As per the State's report filed in Court, during the protest march, clashes took place between both communities. Allegations and counter allegations were made by both groups.

As per an FIR registered, it was alleged that three shops and three houses belonging to the Muslim community were burned and damaged, respectively. It was also alleged that a mosque was damaged and the modesty of women was outraged. The counter allegations made in the FIR include abusing the rally, threatening with dire consequence and attacking the peaceful march.

The suo motu PIL was registered after the Court considered press reports and received a note briefly detailing steps taken by the State with the aim of bringing in communal harmony and taking steps against the perpetrators of violence.

The note was brought before the Court through the Advocate General SS Dey to whom the Bench expressed its sole concern, “the protection of life, liberty and property of all citizens of Tripura.” It was emphasised that the State owes its citizens a responsibility to maintain law and order and to protect their life and livelihood.

The steps taken to restore peace within the State were commended by the Bench. It was noted that peace committees that have been formed in various locations and that steps had been taken by various political parties.

“These steps, in our considered view, will go a long way in regaining the confidence of the citizens at large. However, these steps need to be further expanded. Accordingly, the state may consider forming peace committees not only at district levels but also at sub-divisional levels and if necessary at panchayet levels as well,” the Court suggested.

The High Court sought affidavits seeking information on the status of the investigation in cases registered pursuant to the violence on October 26.

Referring to directions by the State’s Chief Minister asking officials concerned to immediately assess appropriate compensation to victims, the Court asked for speedy action, especially for those who lost their source of income as a result of the violence.

The media’s role, particularly print media, was appreciated as well for taking up an active role in trying to restore peace in the State. However, the State was directed to take action against those spreading false information on social media.

“This Court calls upon the social media platforms to also act responsibly since today. Media has every right, as a part of their activities to publish the truth. It should not be allowed to be used to spread untruth and spread communal passion.”

With this, the Court listed the matter for further consideration on November 12.

[Read Order Here]