This story is from June 18, 2019

BJP-IPFT alliance on the brink as political violence escalates

The ruling partnership between BJP and IPFT in Tripura is in disarray yet again - this time, over allegations of violence against their leaders by both sides.
BJP-IPFT alliance on the brink as political violence escalates
BJP and IPFT had contested the Lok Sabha election as rivals. BJP managed to win both seats in the state. In the assembly, too, BJP has 36 of the 60 seats, while IPFT has eight
AGARTALA: The ruling partnership between BJP and IPFT in Tripura is in disarray yet again - this time, over allegations of violence against their leaders by both sides.
What started with an alleged attack by IPFT workers on the house of BJP MP Rebati Tripura following a BJP victory procession has now turned into an unending cycle of violence, allegations and counter-allegations.
At least 12 people were injured in clashes between workers from the two parties at Gandacherra on Sunday alone.
"The allegation about the attack on MP Rebati Tripura's house was not true. On the contrary, BJP workers attacked the houses of two of our leaders. BJP is deliberately trying to dissociate with us after the (Lok Sabha) election because they think they are strong enough on their own," IPFT assistant general secretary Mangal Debbarma said.
BJP and IPFT had contested the Lok Sabha election as rivals. BJP managed to win both seats in the state. In the assembly, too, BJP has 36 of the 60 seats, while IPFT has eight.
BJP has accused IPFT workers of attacking their own leaders, blocking roads and abusing BJP supporters. Party sources, meanwhile, said BJP will try and retain the partnership until the election to the Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council later this year - for which support from the tribal-based IPFT will be imperative. If the coalition does not survive until then, sources added, top IPFT leaders might jump ship and join BJP. IPFT, on its part, will convene a meeting on July 6 to decide if it will stay on in the coalition.
Leaders from both parties have been visiting the violence-hit areas. IPFT president and revenue minister NC Debbarma and Mevar Kumar Jamatia visited areas in the Dhalai and Khowai districts. BJP leaders, led by state unit general secretary Rajib Bhattacharjee, have also left for Gandacherra. Top leaders of the two parties may meet later.
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