Latest Sandeshkhali News | Top Sandeshkhali News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Sandeshkhali News Today | English Sandeshkhali News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Mamata Banerjee to Visit Sandeshkhali for First Time Since Harassment Allegations

December 30, 2024, 8:59 am

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will visit Sandeshkhali on Monday for the first time since allegations of sexual harassment and land grabbing by local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders sparked large-scale protests earlier this year.

Banerjee, speaking from the state secretariat, explained that her visit is focused on distributing benefits under various state government schemes and addressing local concerns. She emphasized that around 20,000 beneficiaries will benefit from programs like ‘Lakshmir Bhandar’ and ‘Banglar Bari,’ and she plans to hand over certificates to approximately 100 people during the event.

The Chief Minister also clarified that this visit was part of a commitment she made before the Lok Sabha elections, assuring locals that she would come to Sandeshkhali.

In response, BJP Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari has announced a counter-event for the following day. The sexual harassment and land grab issue has been a major political flashpoint between the BJP and TMC. Adhikari plans to lead a ‘Jana Sanjog Yatra’ to engage with residents and promote the BJP’s vision for the region.

Earlier this year, Enforcement Directorate (ED) officers were attacked while attempting to raid TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan’s residence in connection with a ration scam. Following this, several women alleged land seizures and sexual harassment by Shahjahan and his associates, leading to protests and calls for his arrest. While Banerjee accused the BJP, ED, and media of conspiring against her party, Shahjahan was eventually arrested after a 55-day manhunt and suspended from the TMC.

Despite the controversy, the BJP failed to secure the Basirhat Lok Sabha seat, with TMC veteran Haji Nurul Islam winning comfortably over BJP candidate Rekha Patra.

Trinamool welcomes SC ruling on CBI probes into Sandeshkhali incident

July 11, 2024, 3:49 am

The Trinamool Congress on Wednesday welcomed the Supreme Court’s ruling that the West Bengal Government’s suit challenging the registration of cases by the CBI in the Sandeshkhali incident without its prior consent was valid.
The Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal Government had approached the Supreme Court against the CBI over filing cases despite the State withdrawing its general consent to the Central agency in 2018.
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and Sandeep Mehta, also rejected preliminary objections of the Centre on maintainability of the suit and the argument that Bengal had suppressed material facts.
The apex court bench noted that since the West Bengal Government had withdrawn general consent to the CBI in 2018, the agency could not have continued to register FIRs in respect of the offences within the State.
The ruling came as a huge relief to the Trinamool Congress which has been mired in multiple corruption cases which are being investigated by the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation under the supervision and monitoring of the High Court.
“This decision by the apex court is a lesson to those who want to undermine a democratically elected State Government by misusing Central agencies. Any threat to our foundational principle of federalism will not be accepted. The move also makes it clear that no one can meddle with a state’s law and order for their selfish political interests,” the party said in its X handle which was reposted by many leaders of the party.
In its plea, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the West Bengal Government, had argued that once the State had withdrawn its consent on November 16, 2018, the Centre could not allow the probe agency to enter the State for investigation.
The West Bengal Government also contended that the CBI was functioning under the superintendence of the Centre.
The Supreme Court bench said the case would have a huge impact on federalism.
“We have considered the DSPE (Delhi Special Police Establishment) Act and Supreme Court rules. It cannot be said that West Bengal has not made out any case against Centre,” it said.
According to section 6 of the DSPE Act, 1946, the CBI must obtain consent from respective State Governments to conduct investigations in their jurisdiction.
The DSPE Act provides immunity from the Centre’s powers, the court added. “We find that in the present suit, the plaintiff is raising the legal issue of whether CBI can file a case under the DSPE Act after revocation of consent. Can CBI register and investigate cases in violation of Section 6?” the court asked.
The next hearing is on August 13 when issues for adjudication will be framed after hearing the Bengal Government and the Union Government.
In his submission today, Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, had said that the Union Government or its departments do not exercise any supervisory control over Central Bureau of Investigation probes.
The Centre had raised preliminary objections about the maintainability of the lawsuit filed by the West Bengal Government, contending that there was no cause of action against the Union of India.
The West Bengal Government has filed an original suit in the apex court against the Centre under Article 131 of the Constitution, alleging that the CBI has been filing FIRs and proceeding with investigations despite the State having withdrawn the general consent to the federal agency to probe cases within its territorial jurisdiction.
Article 131 of the Constitution of India deals with the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction in a dispute between the Centre and one or more States.

Setback to Mamata as SC junks plea on Sandeshkhali

July 9, 2024, 4:29 am

Bengal BJP leaders exulted as the Supreme Court today dismissed a plea by the Mamata Banerjee Ggovernment against transferring Sandeshkhali cases to the CBI. Reacting to the news of the SC upholding the Calcutta High Court decision to transfer all Sandeshkhali cases to the CBI, Bengal BJP leader Agnimitra Paul said: “Today, the TMC Government was once again left red-faced in the Supreme Court. The court directly asked the Mamata Government that why were they desperate to save the mastermind criminal Shiekh Shahjahan who is directly responsible for countless rape and molestation of several women in Sandeshkhali.”

The Mamata government has always used women to create her own way to the top of her political empire and she is still continuing to ignore the plight of women for her own personal agenda, she said, adding that “as a woman I am ashamed, angry and dismayed seeing the plight of my mothers and sisters of the State. Shame Mamata Banerjee! Shame!”

BJP leader and lawyer Priyanka Tibrewal, who had submitted 700-odd affidavits of women of Sandeshkhali to the High Court, said: “This is a tight slap for the Mamata Banerjee government. It is now clear about how Mamata Banerjee gives shelter to goons like Sheikh Shahjahan in order to get votes. When I submitted the affidavits detailing the torture faced by the women before the high court, the Trinamool ecosystem went all-out to discredit them.”

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court bench of Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan heard the West Bengal Government’s petition and came down heavily on the State, asking why it was “interested in protecting an individual” while referring to Sheikh Shahjahan. It dismissed the West Bengal government’s petition challenging the Calcutta High Court’s order to transfer all 42 FIRs related to the ration scam and the Sandeshkhali sexual harassment and land grabbing case to the Central Bureau of Investigation.

While hearing the plea on April 29 also, the apex court asked the West Bengal Government as to why the State should come in as a petitioner for “protecting the interest” of some private individuals.

In its plea before the apex court, the State Government said the High Court’s order had demoralised the entire State machinery, including the police force.

Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for West Bengal, had dubbed the High Court order as perverse, illegal, and arbitrary which deserves to be set aside.

He said the Sandeshkhali issue should not be blown out of proportion due to political reasons. Singhvi said the Calcutta High Court order sought to cover not only incidents of sexual assault and land-grabbing but also other cases such as the ration distribution scam. To this, Justice Gavai came down heavily and said the State Government “did not do anything for months”.

In April, the Calcutta High Court had ordered a court-monitored CBI probe into the allegations against Sheikh Shahjahan and investigate all cases registered against the suspended Trinamool Congress leader and his aides.

During today’s hearing, the Supreme Court said the High Court’s observations would not come in the way of trial.

Trinamool spokesperson Santanu Sen said: “We do not need to learn how to treat women from the BJP which had tortured Bilkis Bano in Gujarat after Godhra. Had the Trinamool Congress been so bad, then we would not be getting the support of the majority of the women of the State, time and time again.”

Sandeshkhali Case: Supreme Court Upholds CBI Probe Order, Rejects West Bengal’s Plea

July 8, 2024, 1:14 pm

The Supreme Court dismisses West Bengal government’s appeal against Calcutta High Court’s decision to order a CBI probe into allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali.

In Sandeshkhali, an island in Sundarbans, tensions have escalated amid allegations of sexual assault and land grabbing involving local Trinamool Congress leaders. Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates are at the heart of these accusations, which have sparked outrage in West Bengal, particularly among women in the village.

In February, a woman accused a Trinamool Congress leader of sexual assault at a nearby party office. Two days after she testified before a magistrate, her house was attacked in the dead of night.

Sandeshkhali: Fresh Clashes Emerge After TMC Unveils New Sting Footage

May 12, 2024, 11:41 pm

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) released a new video late Saturday night, purportedly showing Gangadhar Koyal, a mandal president of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from Sandeshkahli, North 24 Parganas, discussing the need for weapons to disrupt around 50 booths ahead of the Lok Sabha elections.

Fresh violence erupted in Sandeshkhali on Sunday, with BJP workers, mainly women, attacking TMC workers, alleging the fabrication of fake videos. The Sandeshkhali police station was besieged.

In the video, Koyal is seen allegedly discussing the procurement of pistols and cartridges for specific villages. He also discusses the amount of alcohol and funds required for the elections.

Sandeshkhali previously made headlines in February when village women staged violent protests demanding the arrest of Shahjahan, a TMC leader, over allegations of sexual assault and land grabbing. Shahjahan was later arrested and handed over to the CBI.

Koyal has lodged a complaint with the CBI alleging video manipulation and has demanded an investigation. Meanwhile, the BJP shared a video in which a woman featured in the sting video claimed she was coerced, and the video was doctored.

Fresh violence erupted in Sandeshkhali on Sunday, with BJP workers, led by Rekha Patra, attacking a TMC worker. Patra accused TMC leaders of orchestrating violence and fabricating videos to tarnish their image.

State minister Shashi Panja accused the BJP of instigating violence under the leadership of Rekha Patra in Sandeshkhali, blaming Prime Minister Modi for fostering such actions.

Hindus IInd class citizens in Bengal: Modi

May 4, 2024, 3:33 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today took pot-shots at each other over the issues of women’s safety and corruption in the State.

In all three rallies in West Bengal on Friday, the Prime Minister hit out at the Trinamool Congress for the corruption in the School Service Commission scam in which 26,000 have lost their jobs.

Addressing rallies in Bardhaman-Durgapur and Krishnanagar, Narendra Modi said: “Although I want all those involved in corruption by the TMC to be punished but don’t want the innocent to suffer. The corruption that the TMC has done in Bengal in school recruitment is shameful. Due to this scam, several genuine candidates have suffered. I have asked the Bengal BJP unit on behalf of the party to create a separate legal cell and social media platform to provide help to the genuine candidates and teachers,”

“The BJP will support such honest candidates and will provide them legal help and will fight for them. This is Modi’s guarantee,” he said.

PM Modi underscored the lack of accountability within the Trinamool Congress, listing a series of scams: “TMC leaders have a record of committing various types of unimaginable scams – from Ponzi schemes, ration, and recruitment scams, to coal and animal trafficking scams. Each scam is worth several hundred crores of rupees, reflecting how these people have looted the public in every way.”

He said that the Trinamool Congress had allowed anti-social elements to exploit the people, capturing villages, hospitals, police stations, and mines. This is mafia rule, not governance.

The recent incident in Sandeshkhali is a result of this. Investigating agencies are attacked, and the State Government supports the attackers. TMC is running a mobocracy, not a republic. The court has to reprimand the Government daily. It’s crucial to stop such anti-democratic activities. Strengthen Modi to safeguard democracy and the Constitution,” the PM.

PM Modi alleged that Trinamool Congress was indulging in politics of appeasement. “Why have Hindus become second-class citizens in Bengal? An MLA of TMC gave a statement recently that they will throw Hindus in the Bhagirathi River. What kind of politics is this? Is appeasement more important than humanity for the TMC?” the PM asked. “The Congress, TMC and Left parties only believe in the politics of appeasement,” the PM added, referring to the reported remarks of Trinamool Congress MLA Humayun Kabir on“throwing Hindus in the Bhagirathi River.

During his address, PM Modi also criticized the Trinamool Congress for its “apathy towards the victims in Sandeshkhali”. “The State Government, due to its appeasement politics, didn’t touch the main accused in the Sandeshkhali case as his name is Shahjahan Sheikh.

So many atrocities were committed against women there, and the entire country wanted punishment for the culprits.

But, the TMC kept protecting the main accused till the end,” he said.

The PM also claimed: “Modi ensures direct transfer of funds to beneficiaries’ bank accounts, cutting out middlemen. However, TMC insists on channelling funds through their accounts.

Modi’s approach is a direct benefit, while TMC obstructs Central Government schemes by insisting on controlling funds.”

PM Modi also came down heavily on the Bengal Government for opposing the Citizenship Amendment Act. “The Congress, TMC and Left parties only believe in the politics of appeasement,” Modi added.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee struck back from her election rally in Bardhaman. Bringing up the Sandeshkhali issue, which was used by the BJP to condemn her party, Mamata Banerjee hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that while he had a lot to say at the time, he has kept quiet over the sexual harassment charges levelled against West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose despite being in the State when the allegations were made.

The Trinamool Congress chief also asked Governor Bose – who had made a series of statements against the Government over the alleged sexual harassment of women by Trinamool leaders in Sandeshkhali: “How can he talk about the dignity of women when he has been accused of doing the same thing at his official residence.

Addressing a rally in Bardhaman, Banerjee said: “Modi has given so many messages (‘sandesh’) on Sandeshkhali. I did not let any untoward incident happen there. There was an issue around land but we solved it by sending officers to the village. But what are you doing? Yesterday, a young woman working at the Raj Bhavan came out and spoke out against the Governor’s harassment.”

“Even yesterday, the Governor asked why my Minister spoke against him. I have heard of many such incidents but I did not bring them up. But yesterday, the tears of the woman broke my heart. The Governor spoke about Sandeshkhali but why did he do this to someone working for him? He molested her not once, but twice,” she alleged.

Stating that she had seen the video of the woman’s testimony, the Chief Minister asked why the Prime Minister, who was in Bengal and had stayed at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday night, had not said anything. “Your people were also there when she left crying and said she was scared of working at the Raj Bhavan. She said she was called at odd hours and was subjected to harassment. And these are the people who talk about the dignity of our mothers and sisters,” she alleged.

Mamata Banerjee also accused the BJP of running a “washing machine” to whitewash corrupt leaders. “Modi and the BJP is the biggest corruption racket,” she said.

BJP Leader Raises Alarm Over Arms Recovery in West Bengal’s Sandeshkhali

April 27, 2024, 5:39 am

Sukanta Majumdar, the chief of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal, has raised concerns following the recent seizure of a significant cache of arms and ammunition by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in Sandeshkhali. Majumdar said that the riverine island is “heading towards a dangerous phase.”

Expressing worry over the escalating situation in the riverine island, Majumdar highlighted previous controversies involving cases of rape and drug trafficking. He suggested that the recovered arms, including foreign-made pistols and revolvers, could have been smuggled into the country.

Majumdar called for a thorough investigation by security agencies, questioning the reasons behind the presence of such a large quantity of arms in Sandeshkhali.

Additionally, he criticized the West Bengal Police for perceived shortcomings in professionalism, courage, and resources. Notably, the weapons were found at the residence of a relative of a Trinamool Congress (TMC) member, prompting Majumdar to urge authorities to question individuals associated with the area.

Despite these concerns, Majumdar noted the peaceful conduct of the second phase of elections in West Bengal, expressing hope for continued tranquility during the remaining hours of voting.

ED Nabs Three Associates of Former TMC Leader Shahjahan Sheikh

April 15, 2024, 7:24 pm

Enforcement Directorate (ED) announced the apprehension of three associates of former Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Shahjahan Sheikh on Monday.

The ED took custody of them on April 12 after Calcutta High Court granted 10 days of custody to the agency.

“ED, Kolkata, has taken Shib Prasad Hazra, Sekh Alomgir and Didar Boksh Molla (all associates of Shahjahan Seikh) into its custody on 12/04/2024 following the order of Hon’ble PMLA Court granting 10 days ED custody. Earlier, ED has obtained ED custody of Shahjahan Seikh for 13 days,” the ED said in a post on social media platform X.

The Calcutta High Court last week ordered a court-monitored investigation by the CBI into the alleged incidents of sexual assault and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali.

The women of Sandeshkhali in the North 24 Parganas district took to the streets earlier against the ruling TMC and Shahjahan, accusing the strongman and his aides of perpetrating gross excesses and atrocities on them while also gobbling up their land.
Multiple women on the island accused Shahjahan and his aides of “land-grab and sexual assault” under coercion.

Previously, a court in Kolkata remanded Shahjahan in ED custody until April 13, subsequent to his arrest in connection with the attack on the team from the central agency.

The ED also uncovered numerous illegal financial transactions in the shrimp import and export business during its investigation into the expelled TMC strongman.

The agency has also lodged two Enforcement Case Information Reports (ECIR) against him. Shahjahan stands accused of forcibly seizing multiple lands in the Sandeshkhali area of West Bengal according to ED sources.

Previously, in compliance with the directive of the Calcutta High Court, the Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Kolkata Police transferred custody of Sheikh Shahjahan to the CBI.

On Wednesday, the high court issued a contempt notice to the CID, ruling that the case concerning the assault on ED officials be transferred to the CBI, along with the custody of the main accused, Shahjahan.

The court additionally noted that the state police engaged in ‘hide and seek’ regarding the matter.

After purportedly avoiding arrest for almost two months, the suspended TMC leader was apprehended by the West Bengal Police on Feb 29.

Mamata responses on NIA attack case; asks for timing of raid; BJP says no law and order in Bengal

April 6, 2024, 2:24 pm

In her initial response to the assault on a National Investigation Agency (NIA) team at Bhupatinagar in Purba Medinipur district during an investigation related to a blast case, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee asserted on Saturday that the elite anti-terror agency hadn’t informed the state government beforehand about their visit to the area. Sources within the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) reported that the CM also raised questions regarding why the agency conducted the raid in the middle of the night.

Addressing the Bhupatinagar incident, Mamata questioned the timing of the raid, stating, “Why did they choose to conduct the raid at midnight? Did they obtain police permission? The locals reacted as expected when faced with unfamiliar visitors late at night. Why are they apprehending people just before the elections? What does the BJP aim to achieve… by having our booth agents detained? What authority does the NIA possess? These actions appear to be in favor of a specific political party ahead of the elections. We urge all conscientious individuals nationally and internationally to condemn BJP’s deceitful politics.”

In a counterattack against the ruling TMC in the state, veteran BJP leader and former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad remarked, “Is this the first time such an incident has occurred in Bengal? Wasn’t the Enforcement Directorate (ED) team attacked previously? Didn’t the truth about Sandeshkhali emerge? The NIA team was conducting raids against suspected terrorists when they were attacked.”

Speaking to ANI, BJP leader Rahul Sinha strongly criticized CM Mamata, highlighting that the incident once again exposes the complete breakdown of law and order in Bengal. Sinha accused the chief minister of running a dictatorial regime under the guise of governance and administration, jeopardizing the state’s present and future.

“We demand swift identification and prosecution of those responsible for this incident. The culprits must face exemplary punishment,” added the BJP leader.

Earlier in the day, some NIA officers were reportedly harassed in Purba Medinipur district while investigating a blast case. According to sources within the elite anti-terror agency, an NIA team conducting an ongoing probe into the blast case faced an attack on Saturday in Puba Medinipur. Sources stated that the vehicle carrying NIA officers was allegedly vandalized during the process of apprehending a suspect related to the case.

A video of the purported incident circulated widely on social media, showing locals gathering around the vehicle, attempting to prevent the NIA team from taking the suspect. The villagers also reportedly hurled stones at the vehicle.

As previously reported, a team of ED officers was surrounded, harassed, and attacked by protesters in Sandeshkhali while raiding the residence of expelled and imprisoned TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and another ruling party member concerning an alleged food scam.

PM Modi hails Sandeshkhali survivor Rekha Patra, calls her ‘Shakti Swaroopa’

March 26, 2024, 5:57 pm

Rekha Patra, one of the alleged victims of sexual harassment and the face of protests in Sandeshkhali against alleged atrocities by the Trinamool Congress leaders and henchmen, on Tuesday spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominted her for the Basirhat Lok Sabha constituency. Rekha will contest Lok Sabha election 2024 from Basirhat seat, which has Sandeshkhali block and village under it.

Prime Minister Modi spoke with Rekha about her election preparations. During his phone chat with Rekha Patra, the Prime Minister referred to her as an embodiment of Shakti and inquired about the general sentiment of the voters in the constituency. She informed the Prime Minister of the hardships faced by area, who claim that Trinamool Congress politicians had harassed them.

The claims of land grab, extortion, and sexual harassment against Trinamool leaders by the people of Sandeshkhali have become a major discussion point ahead of the next Lok Sabha election.

A further allusion to the Shakti argument between the BJP and the INDIA coalition is the Prime Minister’s designation of Rekha Patra as ‘Shakti Swaroopa’.

A few days back, the Prime Minister responded to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s statement that the Opposition is up against the “shakti” (power) of the State by stating that the INDIA coalition seeks to destroy Shakti, who is revered in many regions of India.

The counterstrike by the Prime Minister made reference to Shaktism, a goddess-centered Hindu tradition that is practiced throughout the nation, particularly in Bengal.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP fields Sandeshkhali Survivor, Rekha Patra, Posters against her appear

March 26, 2024, 10:31 am

Handwritten posters have emerged in select areas of Bengal’s Sandeshkhali, condemning the BJP’s Lok Sabha candidate Rekha Patra, purportedly a victim of mistreatment by arrested and suspended Trinamool leader Shajahan Sheikh and his cohorts.

The BJP ascribed these posters to the TMC, although the ruling party of the state refuted the accusation.

Despite not officially joining the BJP, Ms. Patra was nominated for the Basirhat Lok Sabha constituency, which includes Sandeshkhali.

Posters with messages like “We don’t want Rekha as a candidate” and “We don’t want Rekha Patra as BJP candidate” surfaced today, subsequent to her nomination announcement.

A local BJP representative remarked, “The posters are not ours. The Trinamool Congress has orchestrated this for political gains,” whereas the TMC denied any involvement.

Certain local women expressed contentment with Ms. Patra’s candidacy, with one stating, “We haven’t had an MP from our village before. Now we may have one.”

Ms. Patra actively participated in protests in Sandeshkhali and lodged a complaint leading to the arrest of Shibu Hazra, a local influential figure and an associate of Shajahan Sheikh.

She reportedly joined a group that met Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his public address in Barasat on March 6, highlighting the challenges faced by women.

Amit Malviya, the BJP’s Bengal co-incharge, emphasized, “Let Mamata Banerjee address the grievances of women like her, who silently suffer, before seeking their votes.”

Sandeshkhali, situated in the North 24 Parganas district, witnessed turmoil due to allegations of sexual violence against women and land encroachments by Sheikh and his associates.

Last month, Sheikh was arrested by state police for assaulting Enforcement Directorate officers on January 5. The case is now being investigated by the CBI, with Sheikh currently in the agency’s custody.

EC orders removal of West Bengal DGP, Home Secretaries in 6 states to ensure fair elections

March 18, 2024, 3:17 pm

Before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) issued directives on Monday for the dismissal of West Bengal’s Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar and Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Commissioner Iqbal Chahal, along with several other senior officials across various states. This action by the ECI is portrayed as a decisive step to uphold the principles of free, fair, and transparent elections.

The ECI mandated the removal of key officials from six states, including Home Secretaries from Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Additionally, the General Administrative Department secretaries in Mizoram and Himachal Pradesh have been relieved of their duties.

The Director General of Police came under scrutiny following criticism from the BJP and other opposition parties regarding the alleged inaction of the Bengal police in addressing the grievances of the Sandeshkhali victims. Tensions escalated in the Sandeshkhali area as female protestors demanded justice for purported atrocities committed by Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates.

Moreover, the Election Commission directed all state governments to transfer officers involved in election-related duties who have served three years in their current positions or are stationed in their home districts. However, Maharashtra did not comply with these directives regarding certain Municipal Commissioners and additional/deputy Municipal Commissioners. Expressing dissatisfaction to the Chief Secretary, the Commission ordered the transfer of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Commissioner and additional/deputy commissioners by 6 PM on the same day. Additionally, the Chief Secretary was instructed to transfer similarly positioned Municipal Commissioners and additional/deputy Municipal Commissioners in other corporations across Maharashtra.

These measures are in line with the Commission’s dedication to ensuring a fair and impartial electoral process, as reiterated by CEC Rajiv Kumar during the recent press conference announcing the schedule for the 2024 General Elections. The Commission meeting chaired by Rajiv Kumar, along with Election Commissioners Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, was held at noon.

The officials removed from their positions in these seven states were found to hold dual charges in the office of the Chief Minister, potentially compromising the required impartiality and neutrality, especially concerning law and order and the deployment of forces during the electoral process. These actions aim to uphold the highest standards of integrity and impartiality among all stakeholders, thereby preserving a level playing field throughout the electoral process.

NCW Concerned Over Brutal Assault on BJP Booth President’s Wife

March 13, 2024, 2:36 pm

The National Commission for Women (NCW) expressed concern over reports of a brutal assault on the wife of a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) booth president by members of the opposition in Altapur village, West Bengal.

“NCW is deeply disturbed by reports of a brutal attack on the wife of a political party president from the opposition in Altapur village, West Bengal. The assailants allegedly vandalized her home, assaulted her son and daughter, and subjected her to horrifying violence and molestation,” the NCW said in a post on ‘X’.

NCW is deeply disturbed by reports of a brutal attack on the wife of a political party president from the opposition in Altapur village, West Bengal. The assailants allegedly vandalized her home, assaulted her son and daughter, and subjected her to horrifying violence and…

— NCW (@NCWIndia) March 13, 2024

In condemnation of the incident, the NCW Chairperson penned a letter to the West Bengal Director General of Police, urging the invocation of sections 354, 323, and 509 of the Indian Penal Code.

“We condemn this heinous act and urge swift action to ensure justice and the safety of women in the state. The Chairperson NCW has sent a letter to DGP West Bengal to invoke sections 354, 323 and 509 IPC to ensure justice in this case,” the NCW said.

Earlier on March 10, the West Bengal BJP said in a post on ‘X’, “Whether it is Sandeshkhali or Karandighi, Hindus are repeatedly attacked! The chief minister is always blaming Hindus.”

The West Bengal BJP also posted a video clip in which a woman victim was purportedly heard saying, “Around 300 Muslim men came to my house. I was talking to them through the window. They broke the window, took away our belongings such as suitcase, almirah, TV, bed…”

“They broke the idols of Goddess Durga and Goddess Manasha,” she said adding that her children were attacked by them and she was bleeding from her ears.

Earlier last week, NCW Chairperson Rekha Sharma, in a scathing attack on the TMC-led West Bengal government regarding the Sandeshkhali incident, asserted that justice cannot be served when the state government is determined to protect the culprits.

“When the government begins thinking that they have to save their government by hook or by crook, then I don’t believe that justice can be given to anybody. In West Bengal, the same thing happened; it was all about politics and money in Sandeshkhali and it’s still there. I will say, nothing has changed. When politics and money become more significant for the government, then citizens become secondary,” she said.

ABVP Protests Sandeshkhali Incident, Burns Effigy of West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee

March 10, 2024, 4:51 pm

The Assam unit of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) staged a demonstration on Sunday, burning an effigy of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to protest against the Sandeshkhali incident. The protesters called for a central agency inquiry and strict actions against the culprits.

Sandeshkhali, located in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, has been witnessing widespread protests following allegations against suspended Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shahjahan. A section of women in Sandeshkhali accused Shahjahan Sheikh and his associates of land-grabbing and sexual assault under coercion.

After weeks of inaction, Sheikh Shahjahan was arrested by the West Bengal police on February 29 and remanded to 10-day police custody by Basirhat Court. He is a key accused in cases of extortion, land grab, and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali.

Earlier, the Basirhat Sub-Divisional Court granted the CBI four-day custody of Sheikh in connection with the January 5 attack on an Enforcement Directorate team in Sandeshkhali. This decision followed a directive from the Calcutta High Court, which led to the Crime Investigation Department handing over custody of Sheikh Shahjahan to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Trinamool Congress and the opposition’s INDIA bloc, stating that the West Bengal government remains indifferent to people’s struggles and sufferings. He highlighted issues such as the creation of 25 lakh fake job cards to benefit TMC’s ‘tolabaz’ (extortionists) and the atrocities committed against Dalit and Adivasi women in Sandeshkhali.

“The TMC government gives money to people chosen by ‘tolabaz’. It does not affect TMC when you are struggling or suffering. The entire country is discussing what TMC leaders did to the Dalit and Adivasi women of Sandeshkhali. Atrocities against women and looting the hard-earned money of the poor, this is what TMC’s ‘tolabaz’ do,” PM Modi said.

Suspended TMC Leader Sheikh Shahjahan Sent to 4-Day CBI Custody

March 10, 2024, 3:35 pm

The Basirhat Sub-Divisional Court on Sunday granted a four-day CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) custody for suspended Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shahjahan, who is accused in the Sandeshkhali case and was previously associated with the attack on the Enforcement Directorate (ED) team on January 5. Earlier today, Shahjahan appeared before the court as his 10-day police custody came to an end.

Previously, following the Calcutta High Court’s order, the Crime Investigation Department (CID) of Kolkata Police transferred custody of Sheikh Shahjahan to the CBI. The high court, on Wednesday, issued a contempt notice to the CID, directing that the case regarding the attack on ED officials be transferred to the CBI, along with the custody of the main accused, Shahjahan.

The court also noted that the state police engaged in a game of ‘hide and seek’ regarding the issue.

“The accused is a political influencer. The investigation should be handed over to the CBI and the custody of the accused by 4:15 pm today,” the high court observed.

After allegedly evading authorities for nearly two months, the recently suspended TMC leader was apprehended by the West Bengal Police on February 29. He was presented before the Basirhat court, which granted a 10-day police custody.

In addition to the assault on an ED team during a raid at his Sandeshkhali residence related to an alleged ration scam, Shahjahan faces accusations of land grabbing, extortion, and perpetrating abuses against women alongside his associates. Following these allegations, women from Sandeshkhali in the North 24 Parganas district staged violent protests, taking to the streets to denounce Shahjahan and his accomplices for severe misconduct and atrocities.

Multiple women accused Shajahan and his aides of “land-grab and sexual assault” under coercion.

Calcutta HC Issues Notice to handover Shajahan Sheikh to CBI today

March 6, 2024, 3:20 pm

The Calcutta High Court issued a contempt notice to the West Bengal Crime Investigation Department (CID) and directed them to hand over the custody of Shahjahan Sheikh, the former Trinamool leader accused of extortion, land grab, and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali, to the Crime Investigation Bureau (CBI) by Wednesday. The court mandated that the accused’s custody be transferred to the CBI by 4:30 pm on the same day, emphasizing the state police’s evasion in the matter.

The court labeled Shahjahan Sheikh as a highly influential political figure and stressed the need for a CBI investigation. It stated, “The investigation should be handed over to CBI, and the custody of the accused by 4:15 pm today.” Despite a previous order from the Calcutta High Court, the Bengal government had refused to transfer Shahjahan’s custody to the CBI through the CID.

Simultaneously, the West Bengal government sought an urgent hearing in the Supreme Court challenging the Calcutta High Court’s order for a CBI probe into the Sandeshkhali incident involving an attack on Enforcement Directorate officials on January 5.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with women victims of sexual assault in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal, on Wednesday. Describing them as his “parivar” (family), Modi accused the TMC government of shielding the accused, expressing concern about the treatment of women under TMC rule. He criticized the government for not addressing women’s issues and condemned the acts committed by TMC leaders against women from marginalized groups. Modi highlighted the victims’ emotional interaction with him and their appreciation for his understanding of their pain.

Shahjahan Sheikh was arrested on February 29 by West Bengal police, and the Basirhat Court remanded him to 10-day police custody after weeks of inaction.

‘Matter of shame’ PM Modi criticizes TMC government in Sandeshkhali case while addressing women’s rally

March 6, 2024, 3:09 pm

Addressing a women’s rally in Barasat, North 24 Parganas district, Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government for allegedly protecting the accused in the Sandeshkhali case, calling it a “matter of shame.” He emphasized the BJP’s commitment to women’s empowerment and safety, accusing the TMC of neglecting women’s issues.

Modi expressed concern about the treatment of women under TMC rule and highlighted the Sandeshkhali incident, condemning the government’s alleged protection of the perpetrators. He stated, “Their acts were first condemned by the High Court and then the Supreme Court as well.” Modi accused TMC leaders of atrocities against women from marginalized groups, asserting that the government trusts its leaders more than the women of Bengal.

The Prime Minister argued that the TMC government hinders women’s safety, contrasting it with the BJP government’s decision to award life imprisonment for heinous crimes like rape. He mentioned the ‘Women Helpline’ for easy registration of complaints, claiming the TMC government obstructs its operation in West Bengal.

Modi underscored the BJP’s commitment to women’s empowerment, citing the ‘Shakti Vandan’ campaign and a massive program organized for self-help group members in West Bengal. He also highlighted the inauguration of development projects in Kolkata, emphasizing the government’s priority to modernize public transport.

The tension in Sandeshkhali, where women accused TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan of sexual abuse, was addressed, noting Shahjahan’s subsequent arrest on February 29. Modi, on a three-day visit to several states, criticized the TMC government and its handling of women’s issues during the rally.

PM Modi Remarks Against TMC Over Sandeshkhali

March 2, 2024, 4:25 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lashed out at the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal on Saturday, accusing it of “sexual abuse” and “land grab” in the Sandeshkhali area of North 24 Parganas state. He said that the ruling party “did not want the accused to get arrested.”

PM Modi further said that the Bengali ladies were used as a “vote bank” by the ruling party.

During his speech to the audience in Krishnanagar, Prime Minister Modi stated that although the women of Sandeshkhali “cried out for justice,” the State’s ruling party “looked elsewhere.”

PM Modi stated, “Using the slogan of ‘Maa, Maati, Manush’, the TMC government used the women of Bengal as a vote-bank. Today, Maa, Maati and Maanush are all in the TMC mode of governance. Women of Sandeshkhali kept asking for justice, yet the government did not hear them.”

PM Modi said that the TMC had no “intention” of arresting the principal accused In the Sandeshkhali incident. “But the nari shakti of Bengal stood like a Durga (goddess Durga).”

“In Bengal, the police do not decide when a criminal must be arrested; it’s the criminal who decides everything for himself. The state government did not want the accused in the Sandeshkhali incident to be arrested…,” he added.

He added that all BJP workers supported the Sandeskahli ladies in their fight for justice, adding, “Then the state government relented,” alluding to the arrest of Shahjahan Sheikh.

The accusations of “sexual abuse” against Shahjahan Sheikh, who was apprehended earlier this week after going missing for more than a month, have sparked intense rallies in Sandeshkhali in recent days.

At a function in Krishnanagar, the state leadership of the BJP also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The visit by Prime Minister Modi is significant since the Lok Sabha elections are scheduled to be held in April-May.

TMC strongman Sheikh Shahjahan placed under police custody

February 29, 2024, 12:48 pm

Sheikh Shahjahan of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) was placed under 10-day police custody on Thursday by West Bengal’s Basirhat Court.

Lawyer Raja Bhowmick, who represented Shahjahan in court, said, “14-day police custody (of Sheikh Shahjahan) was demanded, but the court allowed 10-day custody.”

“On March 10, he will be produced in court again,” Bhowmick added.

In relation to an alleged assault on ED officers during a raid in January of this year, Shahjahan was taken into custody by West Bengal police on Thursday morning.

Shahjahan’s arrest was described as an “eye-opener” by West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, who also noted that it is just the “beginning.”

“Today in Bengal, we see the beginning of an end. The arrest of the prime accused in the Sandeshkhali incidents is an eye-opener for everyone. This is only the beginning. We have to put an end to violence in Bengal,” Ananda Bose said.

“In many pockets of Bengal, we all realise that gangsters are ruling unchecked by law enforcement agencies. What we see is only the tip of the iceberg. ‘Gundaraj’ is very much there in many pockets of Bengal. Strong action has to be taken. This has to be nipped in the bud,” he added.

He went on to say that thoughtful measures have to be taken to stop similar occurrences in the future.

“We have to wait. In democratic governance, we have to wait for justice to be done. If any lapses have taken place from the government or any other authority, we still have time to look into that,” the governor said.

“Now, what is required is a considerate action to see that these kinds of things do not happen in future. Action has to be taken against a particular culprit who has been apprehended. My suggestion for all the gangsters is – treat this as an occasion to surrender, otherwise, preventive action has to be taken,” he added.

For more than a month, Shahjahan has been evading arrest by both state and central agencies.

Suvendu Adhikari, the leader of the opposition, claimed that the arrest was ‘a mutual adjustment’.

“This is not an arrest, this is a mutual adjustment. Unless the central agencies take him into their custody, the people there won’t get justice. He will get five-star facilities in jail. He will use his mobile phone inside and control the area from there,” the LoP said while speaking to reporters while on the way to Sandeshkhali on Thursday.

Sandeshkhali, in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, saw widespread protests against TMC strongman Shahjahan Sheikh this month as a section of women were seeking justice against alleged atrocities committed by the TMC leader.

Shajahan Sheikh and his close associates were accused by a significant number of women in Sandeshkhali of “land-grab and sexual assault” under coercion.

Police detains ISF MLA Naushad Siddiqui in Kolkata as prepared to visit Sandeshkhali

February 27, 2024, 12:38 pm

Indian Secular Front (ISF) MLA Naushad Siddiqui was arrested by police in Kolkata on Tuesday as he prepared to visit Sandeshkhali. Engaging in a heated conversation with the police official, Siddiqui questioned the reason behind his detention, stating, “Why am I being stopped from visiting Sandeshkhali? What is the reason behind my detention? Is there any written order?”

In a strong rebuke to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC), Congress state chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury criticized the TMC for attributing the delay in the arrest of Sheikh Shahjahan, a fugitive in the Sandeshkhali case, to legal processes. Chowdhury asserted that blaming the Calcutta High Court in this matter amounted to “contempt of court.” He remarked, “Women across West Bengal are out on the streets, crying for justice and fighting for the honor of fellow women in Sandeshkhali. Those in the TMC government should hang their heads in shame for failing to protect the women of Sandeshkhali.”

On Monday, the Calcutta High Court Chief Justice ordered the inclusion of Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan in the Sandeshkhali case and issued a notice for his arrest, stating, “There is no reason to not arrest him.”

Amid tensions over the Sandeshkhali incident, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose stated on Monday that the Governor’s role is to observe when the elected government takes action within the rule of law. If such action is not taken, the governor may intervene. Regarding the decision by the Calcutta High Court Chief Justice on Sheikh Shahjahan, the Governor deemed it momentous and asserted that there is no excuse for not arresting Sheikh Shahjahan, and he will be arrested.

Sandeshkhali has been fraught with tension for weeks as a group of women seeks justice against alleged atrocities committed by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates. Numerous women in Sandeshkhali accused TMC strongman Shajahan Sheikh and his supporters of “land-grab and sexual assault” under coercion. Sheikh Shahjahan remains at large, with both state police and central agencies unable to locate him.

WB: Fact-Finding Team Arrested in Bhojerhat

February 25, 2024, 4:12 pm

On Sunday afternoon, six members of an independent fact-finding team were arrested in Bhojerhat, West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district, while on their way to Sandeshkhali.
Following their arrest, the committee members were taken to PHQ Lal Bazaar Kolkata.

Saikat Ghosh, Deputy Commissioner, Bhangar Division, Kolkata Police, told the media, “We were requesting them to not cross from here, but they were trying to break the police barricade unlawfully. So, we had to arrest them under Preventive Sections.”

“If there is information of a ‘breach of peace’, police can arrest them under preventive sections,” he added.

The Fact-Finding Committee members were halted by police in Bhojerhat, South 24 Parganas, as they were on their way to the troubled Sandeshkhali district in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas to examine alleged acts of atrocities against women.

Charu Wali Khanna, a member of the Fact-Finding Committee, expressed dissatisfaction, “We were visiting Sandeshkhali, but they have stopped us… Police have purposely stopped us and are creating problems for the common people. Police are not letting us meet the victims of Sandeshkhali…”

Another member of the Fact-Finding Committee, OP Vyas, said, “We are sitting here obediently to oppose as they (police) have stopped us illegally, which is against our rights. We’ll complain about it to the Chief Minister, Governor, Union Home Minister, and even to the Prime Minister.”

He went on to criticize the state government, claiming that the state’s constitutional machinery had failed. “Unfortunately, Police are executing illegal orders and taking the law into their own hands. We want to meet victims of Sandeshkhali,” he added.

Earlier, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders and State Ministers Sujit Bose and Partha Bhowmik met with residents of Sandeshkhali. Following their meeting with the people, West Bengal Irrigation Minister Partha Bhowmick stated that not one woman had highlighted the subject of assault.

While responding to Bhowmick’s statement, West Bengal Opposition leader and state BJP President Sukanta Majumdar said, “The TMC has been in denial mode since the beginning… But later, the police of the TMC government recorded the statement of two women under section 164 in front of the magistrate. Why was the action under 164 was carried out if there was no rape?”

Further lashing out at the state government, he said, “Either Partha Bhowmik is lying or Mamata Banerjee and her police are lying… The case should be given to national investigation agencies otherwise the police will suppress the matter…”

Kolkata Police detains BJP MP Locket Chatterjeeen enroute to Sandeshkhali

February 23, 2024, 1:33 pm

The Kolkata Police intervened and detained Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Locket Chatterjee on Friday, along with other party leaders, as they were en route to the troubled area of Sandeshkhali. The team, comprising senior BJP leaders, aimed to visit Sandeshkhali in response to the ongoing tensions and unrest in the region.

The team, including Locket Chatterjee, MLA Agnimitra Paul, General Secretary & MLA Madhuchandra Kar, Vice-President Adv. Priyanka Tibrewal, State Secretary Sonali Murmu, State Secretary Falguni Patra, President of Mahila Morcha, and Incharge of Mahila Morcha Paromita Dutta, was scheduled to visit Sandeshkhali on the same day.

Sandeshkhali has been experiencing turmoil for over 10 days, with women protestors demanding justice for alleged atrocities committed by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates. Accusations include “land-grab and sexual assault” under coercion. Shahjahan remains elusive, and despite efforts from state police and central agencies, he has not been apprehended.

The Calcutta High Court has recently directed a collaborative Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and West Bengal Police to investigate an assault on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials in Sandeshkhali. The SIT is required to present its findings by February 12.

Simultaneously, a National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) team initiated a “spot-enquiry” into the incidents of violence in the Sandeshkhali area on Friday. The NHRC expressed concern over the reported human rights violations, describing them as a prima facie violation that shocks the conscience.

Earlier in the week, the NHRC issued a notice to the DGP, directing a report within two weeks regarding the detention of a journalist by police in Sandeshkhali. The Commission also tasked its DIG (investigation) to gather facts via telephone and submit findings within a week.

West Bengal Police reports against BJP’s Suvendu Adhikari for alleged ‘Khalistani’ slur

February 21, 2024, 11:51 am

The West Bengal Police reported that BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari directed a ‘Khalistani’ slur at a Sikh police officer. The West Bengal Police condemned this comment, deeming it malicious, racially inflammatory, and a criminal act. The police fraternity expressed outrage, stating, “We unequivocally condemn the unprovoked, unacceptable attack on an individual’s religious identity and beliefs aimed to incite people to take to violence and break the law.” Stern legal action is being initiated in response.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized the incident, accusing the BJP of divisive politics overstepping constitutional boundaries. She vehemently condemned the attempt to undermine the reputation of Sikh individuals and pledged to protect Bengal’s social harmony.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also condemned the incident, stating that BJP’s hatred has blinded them to the extent that they can neither see a farmer, a soldier, nor respect an officer in khaki. He asserted, “The nation stands with IPS Jaspreet Singh,” the targeted police officer.

The incident occurred during the deployment of a police force to enforce Section 144 in Dhamakhali. Subhendu Adhikari, West Bengal Opposition Leader, allegedly referred to IPS Jaspreet Singh as a Khalistani during an altercation. The West Bengal Police plans to take legal action against Adhikari for this serious comment.

The Sandeshkhali area has been witnessing unrest, with women protestors seeking justice against alleged atrocities committed by TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his aides. The arrest of a journalist associated with Republic TV in Sandeshkhali has raised concerns, leading to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issuing a notice to the West Bengal Director General of Police.

Shajahan Sheikh, accused of land-grab and sexual assault, has been absconding since a mob, allegedly affiliated with him, attacked Enforcement Directorate officials. Two TMC leaders, Shiba Prasad Hazra and Uttam Sardar, have been arrested on charges of gangrape and attempt to murder.