VHP march from Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan ends in protest meeting at Melarmath
Aug 02, 2026
Agartala, Aug 1: A protest march that began from Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan and wound through several roads of Agartala culminated in a public meeting near the CPIM office at Melarmath on Saturday, with Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leaders demanding that Leader of Opposition and CPI(M) state secretary Jitendra Chowdhury withdraw his remarks on Brahmin society.The march and the subsequent meeting were held under heavy security, with central forces deployed in the area in advance and West Agartala police station personnel keeping close watch throughout the programme.
According to VHP leaders, Chowdhury's remarks on the Brahmin community, cow worship and ancient Hindu society have hurt the religious sentiments of the Hindu community. VHP state secretary Shankar Das spoke to the media about the protest, while regional dharma prachar pramukh Purnachandra Mandal alleged that Left parties have long held a critical stance towards Hindu religion and culture, and said the remarks have triggered widespread resentment among Hindus.
Speakers at the meeting said sensitivity and responsibility should be maintained while commenting on religious beliefs and traditions, and demanded that Chowdhury issue a public apology and either clarify or withdraw his statement. A large number of people from Agartala and neighbouring areas took part in the march, raising slogans along the route. Though preparations for the march had suggested a tense build-up, the situation did not deteriorate at any point, and the protest concluded peacefully after continuing for close to an hour.
