Amidst fresh turmoil in Sandeshkhali on Thursday, where locals protested by setting fire to properties belonging to accused TMC leaders, West Bengal Police chief Rajeev Kumar assured action against the perpetrators, while a visiting team from the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) documented complaints of forced land seizures and torture from the region.
Upon their arrival in Sandeshkhali, the NCST team, led by acting vice-chairperson Ananta Nayak, engaged with locals and recorded over 23 complaints of forced land grabbing and torture. Nayak affirmed that these grievances would be included in their report to the President.
Meanwhile, West Bengal BJP president Sukanta Majumdar, allowed by police to visit the area for the first time, staged a brief sit-in outside Sandeshkhali police station, demanding the arrest of fugitive TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh. His removal from the area by law enforcement followed a demand for Sheikh's arrest.
Fresh protests erupted in Sandeshkhali, fueled by allegations of sexual abuse and land grabbing against local TMC leaders. Locals expressed their anger by setting fire to a structure purportedly belonging to Shahjahan’s brother Siraj, also a TMC activist, accusing them of land usurpation and molestation.
West Bengal Police chief Rajeev Kumar, stationed in Sandeshkhali, assured stringent action against wrongdoers, emphasizing the police's commitment to address grievances and restore peace in the area.
Efforts to engage with the community and address concerns were evident as police urged locals to submit complaints and relevant documentation, promising swift action and land restitution.
However, public dissatisfaction persisted, with locals questioning the administration's delayed response to the escalating crisis.
TMC leaders faced criticism during their visit, with acknowledgment of past lapses and assurances of redressal. TMC leader and Sandeshkhali MLA Sukumar Mahto sought to reassure locals, acknowledging mistakes and pledging to address grievances.
The NCST delegation received over 23 complaints during their interactions with locals, promising to include them in their report. Their visit follows previous delegations’ recommendations, including calls for President’s Rule amidst ongoing violence and rights violations.
The unrest in Sandeshkhali, sparked by accusations against TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh and his supporters, underscores the deep-seated tensions in the region, with Shahjahan evading authorities since a mob attack on Enforcement Directorate officials on January 5.
In response to the escalating situation, the BJP released a documentary on social media platforms highlighting alleged atrocities in Sandeshkhali, while the TMC accused the BJP of communalizing the issue, emphasizing the need for similar documentaries on crimes against women in BJP-ruled states.
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