Agartala, Jan 6: Tripura Police on Sunday arrested Youth Congress leader Shahjahan Islam in connection with a 2025 incident at Shantipara that had sparked widespread tension across parts of Agartala, officials said.
According to police, Islam was taken into custody after weeks of tracking his movements following the incident, during which he allegedly made a series of controversial remarks, including comments directed at the Chief Minister. A case had subsequently been registered against him.
Superintendent of Police (SDPO) Sadar Deba Prasad Roy said Islam had been evading arrest for several months and was believed to be staying outside the state. His brother Khairul and father had earlier been arrested in the same case.
“For the last two to three days, we were receiving inputs that Shahjahan Islam was hiding in the Jaipur area,” Roy told reporters. “Based on specific information, a team was dispatched and he was detained and arrested today.”
The officer said the accused is currently being interrogated and further details would be shared as the investigation progresses. Police are also examining whether Islam had assistance while he was absconding, sources said.
The Shantipara incident had led to heightened tension in the area at the time, prompting an increased police presence and appeals for calm from the administration. No major violence was reported, but the episode had triggered political reactions and public debate.
In a separate development, police confirmed the detention of a Bangladeshi national from Agartala’s Krishnanagar area late on Sunday night. The detainee has been identified as Babul Mia.
“He has been detained for questioning,” Roy said, adding that authorities are verifying his identity and the circumstances under which he was staying in the area.
Police said investigations in both cases are continuing, and appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings. Officials also reiterated their appeal to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and avoid spreading rumours that could disturb public order.
