Tripura Police SIT investigation has gathered momentum after the state police constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the mysterious death of former Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Dhankar. The high-profile case has drawn widespread attention across the country, with political parties, former police officials, and Dhankar’s family seeking a transparent and comprehensive inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The Tripura Police formed the SIT to ensure an impartial and evidence-based investigation following the sudden demise of the senior IPS officer, whose body was found at the state police headquarters in Agartala on July 20. Authorities have stated that the investigation will examine every possible angle before arriving at any conclusion.
Why the Tripura Police SIT investigation was formed
The Tripura Police constituted a three-member Special Investigation Team headed by West Tripura Superintendent of Police Namit Pathak. The team also includes Additional SP Dhruba Nath and Sub-Inspector Subhojit Deb, who had already been handling the initial investigation.
According to the official order, the SIT has been empowered to seek assistance from the Crime Branch, cyber crime experts, and other police units whenever required. The government has also directed the team to submit weekly progress reports to the Inspector General (Law and Order), ensuring close monitoring of the probe.
Former DGP Anurag Dhankar’s death shocked the police fraternity
Anurag Dhankar, a 1994-batch IPS officer, was serving as the Director General of Police in Tripura after taking charge in 2025. Before leading the state’s police force, he had an extensive career with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), where he handled several nationally significant investigations, including cases linked to the Punjab National Bank fraud and the reinvestigation of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
His sudden death at the police headquarters sent shockwaves across law enforcement agencies. Officials confirmed that he was rushed to Govind Ballabh Pant Hospital after being found unresponsive, where doctors declared him dead. A post-mortem examination was subsequently ordered to determine the exact cause of death.
Investigation to examine all possible angles
The SIT has been tasked with conducting a thorough forensic and technical investigation into the incident. Investigators are expected to review physical evidence, digital records, CCTV footage, witness statements, and forensic reports as part of the inquiry.
Authorities have maintained that no conclusions will be drawn until all evidence has been scientifically examined. The inclusion of cyber crime experts and the option to involve Crime Branch officers indicate that investigators are aiming for a comprehensive examination of every aspect of the case.
Political reactions and calls for judicial probe
While the government has expressed confidence in the SIT, opposition parties have continued to demand an independent judicial inquiry.
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) submitted a memorandum to the Governor, arguing that concerns raised by Dhankar’s family and several officials warranted a High Court judge-led investigation instead of a police probe. Similarly, Congress leaders in Tripura have questioned the credibility of the SIT and called for greater transparency in the investigation.
These demands have intensified public attention on the case, making the investigation one of the most closely watched developments in the state.
SIT reportedly expanded to strengthen the probe
Recent reports indicate that the investigation has been strengthened further. What initially began as a three-member team has reportedly been expanded into a larger Special Investigation Team comprising senior officers from multiple police units, including additional SPs, SDPOs, officers-in-charge of Agartala police stations, and crime investigation personnel.
The expansion is intended to provide additional expertise and ensure that the investigation proceeds efficiently and comprehensively amid growing public scrutiny.
What happens next?
The Tripura Police SIT investigation is expected to continue over the coming weeks as forensic findings, witness testimonies, and technical evidence are analyzed. Weekly reports submitted to senior police leadership will help monitor the progress of the inquiry.
Officials have reiterated that the investigation will remain evidence-driven and impartial. Until the SIT completes its work, authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow investigators to establish the facts through due process.
The outcome of the investigation is expected to play a crucial role in addressing public concerns and providing clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding the untimely death of one of Tripura’s most senior police officers.