In a politically charged episode that has intensified tensions ahead of the Tripura Assembly elections, a six-member Trinamool Congress (TMC) delegation from West Bengal was stranded for over three hours at Agartala’s Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport on October 8, 2025. The delay, allegedly caused by BJP-backed obstruction, has sparked outrage within the TMC camp and drawn sharp criticism from party chief Mamata Banerjee.
Delegation’s Mission and Airport Standoff
The TMC team, led by spokesperson Kunal Ghosh and comprising MPs Saayoni Ghosh, Pratima Mondal, minister Birbaha Hansda, TMCP leader Sudip Raha, and MP Sushmita Dev, had arrived in Agartala to inspect the vandalism at their party’s state headquarters. The office was allegedly attacked earlier in the week by BJP supporters in retaliation for an incident involving BJP leaders in North Bengal.
Upon landing around 11 a.m., the delegation found that the vehicles arranged for their transport had been “chased away by BJP-backed goons,” according to Ghosh. With no alternative transportation permitted by police, the leaders staged a sit-in protest inside the airport premises.
Sequence of Events: TMC Delegation’s Ordeal
| Time | Event Description | Remarks from TMC Leaders |
|---|---|---|
| 11:00 AM | Delegation lands at MBB Airport | Vehicles allegedly chased away |
| 11:30 AM | Attempts to hire prepaid taxis blocked | “Even auto-rickshaws were denied” |
| 12:00 PM | Sit-in protest begins inside airport | “We’ll walk if needed,” said Ghosh |
| 2:00 PM | Police arrange vehicles and security escort | Delegation proceeds to party office |
| 3:00 PM | Internal meeting at Agartala HQ | Complaint to be filed with Governor |
Political Fallout and Mamata Banerjee’s Response
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee condemned the incident, calling it “a blatant attempt to muzzle opposition voices.” She warned, “If this continues, I will go to Tripura myself. Let’s see who stops me.” Banerjee also highlighted the contrast in political hospitality, stating, “Tripura BJP leaders visit Bengal freely, but our leaders face obstruction at every step.”
TMC’s Allegations and Planned Legal Action
TMC leaders accused the Tripura administration of collusion with BJP-backed groups. Sudip Raha described the situation as “jungle raj,” while Pratima Mondal stated that “police stood by as our offices were vandalised.” The delegation plans to meet Governor N. Indrasena Reddy and DGP Anurag Dhankar to file a formal complaint.
Tripura Political Climate: Rising Tensions
The incident has escalated political tensions in Tripura, where BJP holds power and TMC is attempting to expand its footprint. The alleged attack on the TMC office and obstruction at the airport are being viewed as part of a broader pattern of political hostility.
Recent Political Flashpoints in Tripura
| Date | Incident Description | Political Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Oct 6, 2025 | TMC office vandalised in Agartala | Alleged retaliation for BJP MP assault |
| Oct 7, 2025 | BJP leaders attacked in North Bengal | TMC condemned the incident |
| Oct 8, 2025 | TMC delegation obstructed at airport | Sit-in protest and media outrage |
Comparative Political Access: Bengal vs Tripura
| State | Opposition Access to Public Spaces | Police Cooperation | Political Climate |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Bengal | BJP leaders move freely | High | Competitive |
| Tripura | TMC leaders face obstruction | Low (as alleged) | Dominated by BJP |
TMC’s Strategic Response and Future Plans
Following the incident, TMC has announced plans to intensify its campaign in Tripura. The party will hold public meetings, engage with civil society, and demand accountability from the state administration. Kunal Ghosh stated, “We are not afraid. We will return with more leaders and more supporters.”
Disclaimer: This news content is based on verified reports, party statements, and public briefings as of October 9, 2025. It is intended for editorial use and public awareness. The information does not constitute legal or political endorsement and adheres to ethical journalism standards.
