Contractors in Falta have leveled serious allegations against former Trinamool Congress (TMC) candidate Jahangir Khan, accusing him of demanding kickbacks for issuing work orders. The contractors claim that commissions ranging between seven and ten percent had to be paid to Khan's personal assistant to secure approval for various projects.
Details of the Allegations
According to multiple contractors who spoke on condition of anonymity, the practice of paying a cut to Khan's office has been ongoing for several months. The commissions were reportedly mandatory for the release of work orders related to infrastructure and development projects in the Falta area. One contractor stated, "We were told that without paying the commission, our work orders would not be processed. It was a systematic demand."
Impact on Projects
The allegations have raised concerns about the integrity of public works in the region. Contractors fear that the additional financial burden may compromise the quality of materials and labor used in projects. "When we have to pay such high commissions, we are forced to cut corners elsewhere, which ultimately affects the quality of work," another contractor explained.
Political Repercussions
Jahangir Khan, who contested the 2021 West Bengal assembly elections on a TMC ticket from Falta, has denied the allegations. In a brief statement, he called the claims "baseless and politically motivated." However, the opposition BJP has seized on the issue, demanding a thorough investigation. BJP spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya said, "This is a classic example of the TMC's culture of corruption. We urge the state government to probe these serious allegations and take strict action."
Previous Controversies
This is not the first time Khan has faced corruption allegations. In 2023, he was accused of irregularities in the distribution of relief materials during floods. No formal charges were filed in that case. The current allegations add to a growing list of corruption complaints against local TMC leaders in the South 24 Parganas district.
Official Response
The West Bengal Public Works Department has said it will look into the matter. A senior official stated, "We take such allegations seriously. If any evidence of wrongdoing is found, appropriate action will be taken." Meanwhile, the TMC has not issued an official statement regarding the specific allegations against Khan.
The contractors have appealed to the state's anti-corruption bureau to intervene. They have also threatened to stage a protest if no action is taken within a month. The development comes at a time when the TMC is already facing criticism over corruption issues in other parts of the state.
