Property Dispute in Kolkata's Beleghata Escalates into Violent Clashes
A simmering property dispute in the Beleghata area of Kolkata has erupted into a series of violent incidents, resulting in serious injuries to a local resident and triggering fresh confrontations. The situation has drawn significant police attention, with multiple written complaints filed by both sides.
Assault and Hospitalization of Sukamal Debnath
The conflict came to a head on Wednesday afternoon when resident Sukamal Debnath was allegedly assaulted by local developer Raju Naskar and his associates. According to police reports, Debnath sustained severe injuries during the attack and was subsequently rushed to Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Prior to this violent episode, Debnath had reported being wrongfully restrained outside a popular restaurant on Beleghata Main Road, directly opposite Siddheswari Market, around 1 PM on February 5th. This initial incident set the stage for the escalating tensions that followed.
Fresh Clashes and Accusations from Local Tenants
The violence did not subside with Debnath's hospitalization. On Sunday, a fresh round of clashes erupted in the area. During this confrontation, local tenants—predominantly women—came forward to accuse Debnath of instigating violence and issuing threats against them. These allegations added another layer of complexity to the already volatile situation.
In both the initial assault and the subsequent Sunday clashes, formal written complaints were lodged with the authorities, highlighting the deep-seated nature of the dispute.
Conflicting Claims and Police Investigation
The core of the conflict revolves around a contentious property issue. A local police source explained the divergent narratives: "The victim (Debnath) refused to vacate a local property. However, the opposite side claimed that he accepted money initially to vacate but then backed out. These conflicting claims led to the incidents."
Adding to the confusion, some locals alleged that a bomb was used during the previous attack. However, police officials have categorically denied these claims, stating that no First Information Report (FIR) contains any mention of such an explosive device being employed.
Legal Proceedings and Named Accusations
In the first official complaint filed, Sukamal Debnath specifically named Raju Naskar and six of his alleged aides as the perpetrators of the assault. This formal accusation has set the stage for a thorough police investigation into the matter, as authorities work to untangle the web of conflicting testimonies and establish the facts surrounding the violent episodes.
The situation in Beleghata remains tense as police continue their inquiries, with community members anxiously awaiting resolution to this dangerous property dispute that has already resulted in serious physical harm and community discord.
