In Tripura’s Dhalai district, the Mainama Jama Masjid was allegedly targeted by unidentified individuals, creating fear and insecurity among the local Muslim community. The incident occurred on Thursday, December 24, when liquor bottles were placed inside the mosque and attempts were made to set parts of the building on fire.
Speaking to Maktoob Media, the mosque’s Imam, Maulana Mohammad Saiful Islam, said, “Placing liquor bottles in the mosque is a serious insult to our faith. This was not an accident but a deliberate act intended to hurt our religious sentiments and create tension. Fortunately, no one was present in the mosque at the time.”
At the site, a Bajrang Dal flag and a handwritten threat note were also recovered. The note read: “Jai Shri Ram. This is the first and last warning for today. Next time, something bigger will happen. Bajrang Dal. Jai Shri Ram.” The Bengali portion of the letter, when translated, stated: “Consider this a warning. Listen carefully. Even a small mistake will not be forgiven.”
Maulana Saiful added, “Our area is rich in religious diversity. The largest communities here are Christians and Buddhists, followed by Hindus and Muslims. All communities live together in harmony, but organizations like Bajrang Dal are trying to create discord among people.”
The mosque committee immediately filed a written complaint at the Chawmanu police station, stating that the incident was a deliberate attempt to hurt religious sentiments and generate tension against the Muslim community.
Local residents expressed concern that the incident could have turned into a major tragedy if the fire had not been controlled in time.
A deputy sub-inspector at Chawmanu police station confirmed the recovery of the flag and letter to Maktoob Media, adding, “The case is under investigation, and appropriate action will be taken against the perpetrators.”
This incident poses a serious challenge to communal harmony and peace in Tripura.
