By Firstdespatch Desk Apr 16, 2026
Agartala, Apr 16 (FD) Authorities in Tripura have imposed strict prohibitory measures across multiple districts ahead of the vote counting for the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (ADC) General Election scheduled for April 17, 2026. The restrictions have been enforced to ensure that the counting process remains peaceful, transparent, and free from disruptions.
District Magistrates of West Tripura, Gomati district, and Unakoti district issued separate orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023. These restrictions will remain in force from 6:00 PM on April 16 until 6:00 AM on April 18, 2026.
According to official directives, gatherings of five or more individuals are strictly prohibited near counting centers if they are carrying any kind of weapon or weapon-like objects. Items such as sticks, iron rods, stones, or explosives fall under this category. The administration has also banned the movement of two or more motorcycles, scooters, or vehicles in groups, as well as any form of assembly, rally, or procession, whether using loudspeakers or not.
Officials emphasized that these measures are precautionary and aimed at maintaining law and order during the sensitive counting period. The administration remains on high alert to prevent any potential unrest or unlawful activities.
However, the orders also specify several exemptions to avoid disruption of essential services and normal life. Personnel from police forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), and officials engaged in election duties are exempted from these restrictions. Accredited media personnel with valid passes issued by the Election Commission of India are also allowed access.
Additionally, vehicles transporting essential commodities such as vegetables, fish, medicines, and other goods will not be affected. Ambulances and vehicles carrying patients are exempted to ensure uninterrupted medical services. Government employees, armed forces on duty, and individuals engaged in official work are also permitted to move freely.
The administration has further clarified that routine activities such as educational operations during daytime, office work in both public and private sectors, and public transportation services will continue as usual. However, vehicles must not be used to mobilize people for political gatherings.
Religious gatherings for prayers and social functions such as weddings or birthdays are also excluded from the restrictions, provided they do not turn into political assemblies. Markets and business activities can continue normally, as long as they are not linked to political mobilization.
Candidates and vehicles authorized by the Returning Officer or election authorities are also exempted from these restrictions.
Authorities have warned that any violation of these orders will lead to strict legal action under Section 223 of the BNSS 2023. Security has been heightened across all counting centers, with officials reiterating their commitment to conducting a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process. FD SB