Tragedy in Srikantapara: 3-Year-Old Boy Swept Away by River, Minister Visits Grieving Family

A wave of sorrow has enveloped the peaceful village of Srikantapara, under the Santirbazar subdivision, after the tragic drowning of a 3-year-old boy, Alina Tripura, the beloved son of Purnamanik Tripura.

According to family members, Alina had accompanied his 5-year-old elder brother to bathe in the river close to their home — a routine they often enjoyed. But the river, swollen and dangerously fast due to recent rains in the hilly terrain, became a deadly trap. In a matter of seconds, the joyful outing turned into a nightmare. Little Alina lost his footing and was swept away by the powerful current before his brother could cry for help.

The villagers rushed to the scene, and a desperate search began — but it was too late. His lifeless body was later recovered, sending shockwaves through the tight-knit tribal community.

“He was such a joyful soul,” says local resident

“Alina was always smiling, always playing with the other kids,” a neighbor said through tears. “The river took him away so suddenly… we’re all heartbroken.”

The Tripura family, already living in severe poverty, is now grappling with unimaginable grief. Their thatched-roof home in the TRPC Colony area stands silent today — a place where laughter once echoed is now filled with mourning.

Minister Sukla Charan Nuatia Offers Support

Moved by the tragedy, Minister Sukla Charan Nuatia today visited the grieving parents in Kowaifang, his electoral constituency. He offered financial aid and food relief to Alina’s family, as well as other extremely poor households in the area.

“This is a devastating loss. No parent should have to bury their child,” the minister said while consoling Alina’s father. “The government stands with you. We will do everything possible to support the family during this difficult time.”

This heartbreaking incident has also renewed calls from local residents for greater safety measures near rivers, especially in hilly areas where children often bathe unsupervised. Many villagers urged the authorities to install warning signs, railings, or initiate awareness drives during the monsoon season. Alina Tripura’s tragic death is not just a family’s loss — it’s a loss for the entire community. His tiny footprints may fade from the riverbank, but his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Compensation for Death by Drowning in Tripura (Under SDRF):

In Alina Tripura’s case (3-year-old child from Srikantapara), if the drowning occurred due to monsoon-swollen river conditions, his family would likely be eligible for ₹4 lakh from SDRF, possibly more if the Chief Minister's Relief Fund (CMRF) or PMNRF steps in with additional assistance (as has happened in other recent incidents).

By Choba Tripura