The Calcutta High Court delivered scathing remarks directed at Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shahjahan, who stands accused of land grabbing and sexual assault in West Bengal’s Sandeshkhali village. The court’s observations came during the hearing of an appeal by the Mamata Banerjee government challenging a single bench order that had stayed the imposition of Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) in certain areas of Sandeshkhali.
Expressing concern over Shahjahan’s elusive status, the court remarked that it could indicate a deficiency in the state police’s capacity to apprehend him or that he is operating beyond their jurisdiction. The High Court further criticized the notion of allowing one individual to wield such influence over an entire population, stating that such behavior should not be encouraged by the ruling dispensation.
Shahjahan’s case has gained significant attention due to the serious allegations of sexual assault leveled against him and his supporters by several women from Sandeshkhali. Allegations suggest that these assaults occurred at the local TMC office in the North 24 Parganas district village, with victims claiming coercion at gunpoint.
The TMC leader has remained elusive since January 5, when his supporters reportedly attacked Enforcement Directorate officials during a raid related to a ration scam probe. Despite multiple cases registered against him, Shahjahan has evaded arrest, prompting criticism of the Bengal police’s efficacy.
During Tuesday’s hearing, the High Court emphasized the potential law and order ramifications of Shahjahan’s continued evasion. It suggested that his appearance before the court, alongside representatives from the state, Enforcement Directorate, and Central Bureau of Investigation, could help address the situation and ensure accountability.
Chief Justice T S Sivagnanam indicated that Shahjahan would be directed to appear before the court, signaling a concerted effort to address the ongoing issues surrounding his alleged offenses in Sandeshkhali.
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[…] the turmoil in Sandeshkhali village of West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, reports have surfaced of poor tribal families being deprived of MNREGA wages for voting against […]
[…] of the state. Shahjahan, who had been evading law enforcement for 55 days following the attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials on January 5, was apprehended by state police late on Wednesd…. His arrest comes amidst a backdrop of mounting allegations of sexual assault and land grabbing […]