Calcutta High Court Rejects Bail for Shahjahan and Alamgir in ED Attack Case
The Calcutta High Court on Thursday refused to grant bail to Sk Shahjahan and his brother Sk Alamgir in a CBI case concerning the attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officers during a raid at Shahjahan's residence in Sandeshkhali. The court described the accused as "influential persons of the locality and are dreaded by one and all", emphasizing the gravity of the allegations against them.
Legal Proceedings and Bail Arguments
The accused had sought bail, arguing that they had been in custody for over two years. Their counsel, appearing before Justice Suvra Ghosh, highlighted that the CBI plans to examine 88 witnesses and rely on 61 documents and 26 material exhibits. The counsel contended that "the possibility of completion of trial in the near future is bleak", suggesting a prolonged legal process ahead.
Background of the Case and Arrests
Shahjahan was first arrested on March 29, 2024, and later granted statutory bail. He subsequently applied for bail in connection with a complaint filed by an ED deputy director on February 29, 2024. The cases were merged after the CBI took over the investigation.
According to the allegations, on January 5, 2024, ED officials arrived at Shahjahan's premises in Sandeshkhali as part of a money laundering probe. Shahjahan allegedly refused to open the door, and within an hour, a mob of 800 to 1,000 people gathered, armed with weapons, and attacked the ED officials, forcing them to flee the scene.
Alamgir's Involvement and CBI's Stance
Alamgir was arrested on March 17, 2024, and is accused of possessing prohibited firearms, allegedly recovered from the residence of Abu Taleb Sk. The CBI's counsel informed the court that nine accused, including Shahjahan and Alamgir, have been chargesheeted, while investigation is ongoing against 13 others.
The counsel further stated, "A supplementary charge sheet shall be submitted shortly. Though the case was handed over for investigation to the CBI on March 6, 2024, i.e., after two months of the incident, some relevant evidence is yet to be made over." This indicates that the probe is still active, with additional evidence pending submission.
Implications and Next Steps
The bail denial underscores the court's concern over the accused's influence and the serious nature of the charges. With a large number of witnesses and documents involved, the trial is expected to be lengthy, delaying any potential release for Shahjahan and Alamgir. The case continues to highlight issues of law enforcement challenges and mob violence in high-profile investigations.
