In the first such terror strike in Tripura’s capital Agartala, at least five were feared dead and over 70 injured when six blasts struck crowded markets and bus-stands in the city within five minutes beginning 7.30 this evening.

Police suspect the explosive devices were brought on many bicycles and distributed in different market areas of the town crowded by Eid and Durga Puja shoppers.

Although no group has claimed responsibility, authorities have not ruled out the involvement of Bangladesh-based terror group Harkat-ul-Jihad-al Islami (HuJI).

Three suspected HuJI members were arrested in Agartala in the last two months. Islamic militant Mamun Miyan of Bangladesh was arrested from Agartala.

There were also intelligence inputs indicating that local tribal groups — All Tripura Tribal Front or the National Liberation Tribal Front — were planning attacks against Bangla migrants.

Agartala, incidentally is situated right on the India-Bangladesh border with the international boundary remaining by and large porous.

The blasts occured at Radha Bazar, Gol Bazar, G B Bazar, Lake Choumohini and other areas close to the state Assembly. All the injured have been admitted to the GB Hospital.

The ruling Left Front spokesperson said: “It looked like a pre-planned act to create panic and strike terror in the otherwise comparatively peaceful state.”

Two explosive devices were recovered and defused.