The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday conducted searches at multiple locations in West Bengal in connection with the murder of a close aide of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari. The searches were carried out at premises linked to the accused in the case, officials said.
Background of the Case
The murder case pertains to the killing of Avijit Sarkar, a close associate of Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly. Sarkar was shot dead in April 2021 in East Midnapore district, just days before the state assembly elections. The incident had sparked political tensions, with the BJP alleging involvement of ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) workers.
CBI Investigation
The Calcutta High Court had ordered a CBI probe into the murder in June 2021, following a petition by Sarkar's mother. The agency had earlier arrested several persons in connection with the case. The latest searches are part of the ongoing investigation to gather evidence and trace the role of other accused.
Details of the Searches
CBI teams, accompanied by local police, conducted searches at multiple locations, including in Kolkata, East Midnapore, and other districts. The premises searched include residences and offices of suspects. Officials seized electronic devices, documents, and other materials that may help in the investigation.
The agency is also examining the possible role of political rivals in the murder. The BJP has repeatedly accused the TMC government of shielding the culprits, a charge denied by the ruling party.
Political Reactions
Suvendu Adhikari welcomed the CBI action and expressed hope that the investigation would bring out the truth. He said, "The CBI searches show that the investigation is moving in the right direction. We expect the guilty to be punished." Meanwhile, the TMC criticized the searches, calling them a political vendetta by the central agency.
The case remains a flashpoint in West Bengal politics, with both parties trading accusations. The CBI is expected to file a progress report in the Calcutta High Court soon.
