By News On Air Jul 01, 2026
Agartala, July 1 (FD) In a serious incident that has raised concerns over the safety of government officials, Bishalgarh Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Binky Saha reportedly sought enhanced security for her office following an alleged confrontation with Bishalgarh MLA Sushanta Deb, who is accused of intimidating her and other officials during an altercation in May.
According to official sources, the incident occurred on May 7, but came to light only recently after additional security arrangements were made at the SDM's office.
Sources said that SDM Binky Saha was attending a high-level video conference in her chamber when MLA Sushanta Deb allegedly entered the office along with nearly 40 supporters. The MLA reportedly questioned why a parcel of 'Jote' (privately owned) land in the Office Tilla area had not been recorded as 'Khas' (government-owned) land.
The SDM is said to have temporarily suspended her participation in the video conference to explain that the administration could not alter the legal status of any land without following the prescribed legal procedures. She reportedly informed the MLA that any such change without due process would be illegal and could invite legal consequences.
However, sources alleged that the MLA refused to accept the explanation and engaged in a heated argument, during which he allegedly used abusive language against the SDM, Deputy Collectors (DCMs), and other staff members present in the office.
The situation was reportedly brought under control after intervention by office staff and local residents, following which the MLA and his supporters left the premises. Before leaving, he allegedly issued threats to the SDM, sources claimed.
On May 8, SDM Binky Saha reportedly wrote separate letters to Sipahijala District Magistrate Dr. Siddhartha Shiv Jaiswal and Superintendent of Police Bijay Debbarma, detailing the incident and requesting adequate security for herself and the staff working at the Bishalgarh SDM office.
Following the complaint, the district administration reportedly strengthened security at the SDM office. However, sources claimed that many employees continue to perform their duties under an atmosphere of anxiety.
Sources familiar with the matter said the dispute stemmed from a proposed swimming pool project to be funded through the MLA's local area development allocation. According to them, a portion of the identified land is recorded as 'Jote' land in the revenue records and cannot legally be used for a government project unless it is acquired through the prescribed statutory process.
The MLA allegedly insisted that the land be recorded as 'Khas' land to facilitate the project. Administrative officials reportedly informed him that such a change could not be made arbitrarily and must comply with the provisions of land and revenue laws.
Sources described SDM Binky Saha as a sincere and efficient officer who was discharging her statutory responsibilities in accordance with the law. They also claimed that no disciplinary or political action is known to have been initiated against the MLA over the alleged incident.
Attempts to obtain comments from SDM Binky Saha and MLA Sushanta Deb were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report. Their responses will be incorporated as and when received. FD JK