Attempt to torch mosque in Tripura; threat note, Bajrang Dal flag found

Agartala: Tension prevailed in Tripura’s Dhalai district following an alleged attempt to set fire to portions of the Mainama Jame Masjid on the Manu–Chawmanu Road. The incident, which reportedly occurred on December 25, came to light after liquor bottles, a threatening note, and a flag associated with the Bajrang Dal were discovered inside the prayer hall.

The handwritten note, accessed by Maktoob Media, found at the site issued a severe warning to the community. According to reports, the text read, "Jai Shri Ram. This is the first and last warning today. Something big is going to happen next time. Bajrang Dal. Jai Shri Ram. Be careful and listen properly. Even a small mistake will not be forgiven or tolerated."

Imam Maulana Mohammad Saiful Islam confirmed that the mosque was empty at the time of the incident, as community members were attending a programme in the Panisagar area. Upon their return, they discovered that parts of the structure had been set on fire but had subsequently been doused. Along with the fire damage, the Imam reported finding "Kingfisher liquor bottles" and the flag.

Condemning the act as a calculated attempt to incite communal disharmony, the Imam described the incident as a grave insult to Islam. He noted that Dhalai has a diverse demographic comprising Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims who have historically coexisted peacefully. "We have lived in communal harmony and respect each other’s faith. But outfits like Bajrang Dal are creating an atmosphere of fear," he stated.

A police complaint has been filed regarding the incident, though no arrests have been recorded so far.

This marks the second such provocation in the region in recent months. In August, a packet of meat accompanied by a warning letter was found at a Jama Masjid in Tripura’s Unakoti district. That letter had demanded the demolition of the 300-year-old mosque, claiming its existence was redundant and stating, "We want Govinda’s abode back."