Agartala: A dispute has surfaced in Tripura after daily Namaj was halted at the old Chandrapur mosque in the Dimatoli area of Belonia subdivision. The stoppage followed the construction of barricades in front of the mosque for a tourism festival and fair on the adjoining ground. Local Muslims say the barricades blocked access to the mosque and led to a temporary suspension of prayers.
The Chandrapur mosque holds deep historical value. Historians link its construction to the early seventeenth century during the Mughal presence in Tripura between 1618 and 1621. Dense forest later surrounded the structure and prayers stopped for centuries. Public attention returned to the mosque after the demolition of Babri Masjid, following efforts led by former information minister Anil Sarkar. Regular Namaj and an annual fair then resumed at the site.
The present situation arose after the tourism department decided to organise a festival on the same ground. Barricades went up near the mosque entrance. Access for worshippers stopped. Local residents expressed concern over the suspension of daily prayers.
Former MLA and senior CPI M leader Sudhan Das criticised the move. He described the restriction as an assault on secular principles. He urged the state tourism department to open a clear passage for worshippers. He warned political division will deepen if authorities ignore religious access issues.
Vendors, visitors, and local residents continue to gather near the fair site. Community members have appealed for swift administrative action. They seek restoration of prayer access while festival activities continue. The issue now places focus on balancing cultural events with the protection of religious rights in Tripura.
