More than 130 hawkers from a market in east Kolkata's Anandapur, near Ruby Hospital, have lodged a police complaint against ward 108 councillor Sushanta Ghosh and at least seven of his associates, alleging that they extorted nearly Rs 3 crore from traders over the past few years. The complaint was filed at Anandapur Police Station, where law enforcement officials have initiated an investigation into the matter.
Allegations of Extortion During Market Construction
According to the complainants, the alleged collection of money took place during the construction of new tin-roofed and shuttered shops in the market between 2022 and 2023. The hawkers claim that the councillor and his associates pressured them to pay large sums of money under the threat of disruption to their businesses and the construction work. The total amount extorted is estimated to be close to Rs 3 crore, affecting a significant number of small traders who rely on the market for their livelihoods.
Police Investigation Underway
Following the filing of the complaint, the Anandapur Police Station has begun a probe into the allegations. Authorities have stated that they are collecting evidence and recording statements from the victims to build a case against the accused. The investigation is in its early stages, and further details are expected to emerge as the process continues.
Councillor Sushanta Ghosh was not available for comments at the time of reporting. Attempts to reach his associates also proved unsuccessful. The hawkers have demanded strict action against the accused, emphasizing that such extortion has severely impacted their finances and trust in the local administration.
Background of the Market
The market in Anandapur is a bustling hub for daily necessities, serving residents of the area and nearby localities. Many hawkers have been operating there for years, and the recent construction was aimed at improving facilities. However, the alleged extortion has cast a shadow over the development, with traders expressing fear and frustration over the incident.
This case highlights ongoing challenges faced by small vendors in Kolkata, who often fall prey to exploitation during infrastructure upgrades. The police have assured the complainants of a thorough investigation and appropriate legal action.
