Clash during Anti-Cannabis Drive in Boxanagar leaves 4 Security Personnel Injured

By  Firstdespatch Desk   Feb 09, 2026

Agartala, Feb 9 (FD) At least four security personnel were injured on Monday during a violent clash between security forces and local cannabis cultivators at Manikyanagar under Kalamchoura police station in Tripura’s Boxanagar area of Sepahijala district.

Police said the incident occurred when a joint team of Tripura Police and Assam Rifles launched a drive to destroy illegal cannabis plantations in the area. Before the forces could reach the targeted fields, a large group of local residents and cultivators blocked the road and resisted the operation, triggering a fierce confrontation.

The situation escalated as villagers allegedly pelted bricks and stones at the security personnel. To disperse the crowd and regain control, police and Assam Rifles personnel fired nearly 40 rounds in the air as a warning.

At least four security personnel sustained injuries in the clash. One police constable was reported to be seriously injured and was rushed to Bishalgarh hospital for treatment. No civilian casualties have been officially confirmed.

Police claimed that women initially came forward to obstruct the operation, while men allegedly attempted to cut and conceal cannabis plants to prevent their destruction.

Local residents staged protests demanding legalization of cannabis cultivation, arguing that it provides livelihood to poor families. Protesters alleged that while synthetic drugs such as Yaba tablets and cough syrups enter the state from outside, local cannabis growers are being targeted. Some villagers also demanded closure of liquor shops if cannabis cultivation is banned.

Officials said similar anti-cannabis drives were recently conducted in Mohanpur, Sidhai and Lembuchara areas, mostly during early morning hours to avoid resistance.

Describing the incident as one of the most violent confrontations in recent months, authorities said the area remains tense with heavy deployment of police and central forces. Superintendent of Police (Control) Rajdeep Datta stated that strict action would be taken against those involved in attacking security personnel, and investigations are underway to identify the main instigators. Authorities reiterated that the crackdown on illegal cannabis cultivation will continue as part of Tripura’s broader anti-drug campaign. FD JK