On September 21, 2025, journalist Kamal Kanti Tripura was subjected to a brutal physical assault by a group of individuals—believed to be associated with the Tipra Motha party—just before a major BJP clothes distribution event in Hezamara, Tripura. According to the complaint, Kamal Kanti was attacked near the Hezamara Community Hall with sticks and sharp weapons while he was traveling by motorcycle to attend the event with BJP leader Mangal Debbarma. Both the journalist and Debbarma were badly beaten and Kamal Kanti’s motorcycle was stolen. He suffered multiple injuries and required substantial medical care—being first taken to Hezamara local hospital, then transferred to GBP Hospital, Agartala, for advanced treatment. Media coverage and police reports noted that the attack may have been politically motivated given the timing (just before a ruling party event) and the accused assailants’ affiliations. The Chief Minister issued a public condemnation, and two attackers were soon detained. Despite this, there have been broader concerns about the rising frequency of attacks against journalists in Tripura, particularly when reporting or associating with sensitive political activity.

HRDA requests the NHRC to take suo moto cognizance under Section 12(a), initiate an impartial and comprehensive investigation, monitor for possible political interference, secure justice for Kamal Kanti, and implement safeguards for vulnerable journalists in the state.