Calcutta HC Criticizes Mamata Govt for Sheikh Shahjahan’s Elusive Arrest
New Delhi: Calcutta High Court made sharp remarks on Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan amid allegations of sexual harassment and land grabbing in Sandeshkhali village of West Bengal.
During the Mamata Banerjee government’s appeal challenging a single bench order staying the imposition of Section 144 of the CrPC in certain areas of Sandeshkhali, the court expressed concern over Shahjahan’s evasion of arrest. The court’s comments indicated a lack of capacity within the state police apparatus or possible evasion of their jurisdiction by Shahjahan.
The court emphasized that allowing one person to dominate an entire population should not be ignored by the ruling authority, indicating a critical stance towards the situation.
Several women have come forward with serious allegations of sexual harassment allegedly committed by Shahjahan and his associates at gunpoint inside the local TMC office in North 24 Parganas district.
Shahjahan is absconding after his supporters allegedly attacked Enforcement Directorate officials on January 5 during a raid related to the investigation of the ration scam.
Despite multiple cases being registered against Shahjahan for attacking ED officials, the court took note of the failure of Bengal Police to nab the TMC leader.
In response to Shahjahan’s elusive status, the court warned of potential law and order disturbances and indicated that he could be summoned to appear before the court, with the involvement of state, ED and CBI officials.
As tensions rise over Shahjahan’s continued piracy, the judiciary’s investigation underlines the urgency of his arrest and restoration of law and order in the region.
