By Tripura24 News Desk | Agartala Monday, February 9, 2026
AGARTALA: In a heart-wrenching yet controversial turn of events, Nivedita Sengupta, a dedicated school teacher and animal lover from the Badharghat area, has alleged that she is being targeted by a “conspiracy” after she reached out to the state government for help with her animal shelter.
Ms. Sengupta, who claims to have sold her personal gold ornaments to provide food and medical care for over 150 stray dogs and cats, says she is now facing intimidation and threats from rival groups.
Sold Gold for the Voiceless
For years, Nivedita Sengupta and her associate, Shanta Das, have been running an informal animal shelter at a residence in Badharghat. During a press interaction, she revealed that her passion for animal welfare led her to exhaust her personal savings and even sell her gold jewelry to ensure that no animal under her care went hungry.
“These animals have no one else. I spent my salary and sold my ornaments to build this sanctuary. But as the number of rescued animals grew to 150, I realized I needed government support for a permanent structure and proper medical facilities. Instead of support, I am receiving threats,” Nivedita Sengupta told the media.
Allegations of Conspiracy and “NGO Monopoly”
The situation escalated recently when representatives of two prominent animal welfare NGOs allegedly conducted an “unauthorized raid” on her shelter. Ms. Sengupta has filed a formal complaint at the local police station, alleging:
- Trespassing: NGO members entered her private premises without legal authority or warrants.
- Intimidation: She claims she was threatened with the forceful closure of her shelter if she didn’t stop her activities.
- Monopoly Business: The teacher alleged that certain organizations are trying to eliminate “competition” to monopolize the funding and services related to animal welfare in Agartala.
The Registration Debate
While she admitted that her shelter is currently unregistered, she clarified that she has already applied for registration as a cooperative society NGO. She believes that the sudden pressure from other groups is a direct reaction to her seeking official government recognition and assistance.
A Cry for Justice
“Is it a crime to serve the voiceless?” she questioned, visibly emotional. She has appealed to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha and the Animal Resources Development Department (ARDD) to intervene. She is demanding:
- Protection: Security for herself and the 150 animals currently residing in her shelter.
- Investigation: A probe into the “illegal raids” and the motives of the individuals threatening her.
- Institutional Support: Government aid to help her continue her work legally and sustainably.
Community Reaction
The local community in Badharghat is divided. While many neighbors praise her for her selflessness, others are concerned about the hygiene and noise levels of a large-scale shelter in a residential area. However, the allegation that a teacher had to sell her gold to sustain an animal welfare initiative has sparked a massive debate on social media about the state of animal rights and the lack of government-run shelters in Tripura.
The police have confirmed that a counter-case has been registered and they are currently investigating the claims of both parties.
