Udayan Guha, a prominent Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and former minister of West Bengal, was arrested in Cooch Behar on Tuesday, June 17, 2026. The arrest was carried out by the state police in connection with allegations of corruption and misuse of authority during his time in office.
Details of the Arrest
Sources confirmed that Guha was taken into custody from his residence in Cooch Behar district following a thorough investigation. The charges against him include financial irregularities and abuse of power, specifically related to infrastructure projects and land allocation during his tenure as a minister. The TMC leader has been under scrutiny for several months, with multiple complaints lodged against him by opposition parties and civil society groups.
Political Reactions
The arrest has sparked strong reactions from the political spectrum. The TMC has termed the arrest as politically motivated, accusing the current state government of targeting opposition leaders ahead of upcoming elections. On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and other opposition parties have welcomed the action, calling it a step towards accountability and transparency in governance.
Legal Proceedings
Udayan Guha is expected to be produced before a local court in Cooch Behar later today. Legal experts anticipate that he may be remanded to police custody for further interrogation. His legal team has announced plans to challenge the arrest in the Calcutta High Court, arguing that the charges are baseless and fabricated.
Background of Udayan Guha
Udayan Guha has been a key figure in West Bengal politics for over a decade. He served as a minister in the TMC government under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, handling portfolios such as agriculture and rural development. He is known for his grassroots connect in the Cooch Behar region and has been a vocal supporter of the party's policies. His arrest marks a significant development in the state's political landscape, with potential implications for the TMC's standing in the region.
The investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge as the case progresses. The arrest has once again brought to the forefront the issue of corruption in state politics, with many calling for a thorough probe into other similar cases.
