Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Saturday said the overall crime rate in the state has declined sharply compared to 2023, reflecting improved law and order till November 2025.
Saha made the statement after chairing a high-level review meeting on law and order at Pragna Bhawan in Agartala with senior police officials, including Superintendents of Police, Sub-Divisional Police Officers and Officers-in-Charge of police stations.
The Chief Minister, who also holds the Home portfolio, said the police station is the foundation of the entire delivery system and stressed the need for professionalism and accountability at the grassroots level.
“We have 90 police stations and nine women police stations in the state. There was a time when political leaders maintained close connections with Officers-in-Charge, which led to indiscipline. We have to break that culture. I have never called any OC. Those who ruled the state for 35 years enjoyed such practices earlier, but now officers have been asked to perform their duties independently and responsibly,” Saha said.
He emphasised that police personnel are part of society and must discharge their duties with dignity and fairness. Describing the uniform as an ornament, he said it should always be respected.
“There was also a time when police officers were identified by political colour. Such a situation should never arise. Officers will be recognised purely on the basis of their work. I do not interfere in police functioning. However, based on reports, I hold meetings with the SPs and District Magistrates every fortnight to seek clarifications wherever required,” he said.
Saha directed Officers-in-Charge to closely monitor the registration of FIRs and ensure they are properly drafted.
He also highlighted the importance of timely submission of charge sheets so that justice is not delayed.
“If any police personnel appears unwell or disturbed, counselling can be arranged. Physical fitness is extremely important for police personnel, and daily exercise should be ensured,” he added.
Presenting crime statistics, the Chief Minister said offences across all major categories have shown a significant decline. Crimes against the human body stood at 1,385 cases in 2023, which came down to 753 cases in 2025 till November.
Crimes against women decreased from 791 cases in 2023 to 627 cases during the same period in 2025.
He also pointed out that overall crime cases declined from 5,002 in 2023 to 3,386 in 2025 till November, marking a sharp reduction.
Saha said discussions were also held on cases under the NDPS Act, reiterating the Centre’s zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking as articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
“The present government will not compromise on law and order. Issues related to Bangladesh were also discussed, and we are keeping a close watch on communal elements, touts and other anti-social activities. Such activities will not be allowed,” he said, adding that collective effort was essential to build New India and New Tripura.
Director General of Police Anurag, Chief Secretary J K Sinha and other senior officials were present at the meeting.