The ongoing turmoil in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal, has taken a new turn as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader, Suvendu Adhikari, alleged that Sheikh Shahjahan, the main accused in the violence over land disputes and sexual harassment, is now in the “safe custody” of the state police. Adhikari claimed that Shahjahan negotiated a deal with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s police force, securing luxurious treatment while in custody.
According to Adhikari, Shahjahan, known locally as the “Scoundrel of Sandeshkhali,” was taken into custody by Mamata Police from the Bermajur-II Gram Panchayat area after striking a deal through influential mediators. Adhikari’s assertions, posted on social media, detailed that Shahjahan would allegedly be provided five-star facilities during his time behind bars, including access to a mobile phone to lead his political activities virtually.
In response, TMC leader Santanu Sen dismissed Adhikari’s claims as baseless, attributing them to attempts to disturb the state’s law and order. Sen emphasized that the police were actively pursuing Shahjahan’s arrest, similar to the apprehension of other accused party leaders in the region.
These developments follow TMC legislator Kunal Ghosh’s recent assertion that Shahjahan would be apprehended within a week, a statement made after the Calcutta High Court refuted claims that the judiciary had restrained the police from arresting him. The high court’s remarks came amidst escalating unrest in Sandeshkhali, where women protesters have been demanding justice against alleged crimes committed by Shahjahan.
Notably, Shahjahan has been absconding since January when a mob, purportedly linked to him, attacked Enforcement Directorate officials during a raid related to a ration scam. The situation in Sandeshkhali remains tense, exacerbated by recent searches conducted by the ED and the ongoing political tussle between the BJP and TMC.
Sources By Agencies