East Midnapore Police Initiate Suo Motu Case Against BJP MLA Ashok Dinda
In a significant development, the East Midnapore Police have lodged a suo motu case following serious allegations made by BJP MLA and former Indian cricketer Ashok Dinda. The case stems from Dinda's claims that police officers were involved in extorting money from fish traders in the Moyna area. The police have also issued a formal summons to the MLA, demanding his presence to address the allegations.
Dinda's Allegations of Systematic Extortion
Ashok Dinda, in an undated video that has since gone viral, made explosive accusations against local law enforcement. He stated, "Every evening, policemen on scooters stand by the roads to collect Rs 100-200 from every fish van. I have video evidence of this." Dinda further alleged a structured distribution of the extorted funds, claiming that fifty percent of the money remains at the local police station, while the rest is funneled to the Superintendent of Police (SP). These allegations have sparked widespread concern and scrutiny.
Police Response and MLA's Request for Time
In response to the allegations, the East Midnapore Police have taken swift action by filing the suo motu case. Police officials confirmed that Dinda has sought additional time to respond to the summons, indicating a potential delay in the proceedings. SP Mitun Kumar De addressed the situation, stating, "Such comments are not expected from a responsible public representative." This remark underscores the tension between the police administration and the BJP MLA, highlighting the gravity of the accusations.
Broader Implications and Public Reaction
The case has drawn attention to issues of corruption and governance in the region, with many calling for a thorough investigation. The allegations by a high-profile figure like Ashok Dinda, who is both a former international cricketer and a sitting MLA, add a layer of complexity to the situation. As the legal process unfolds, stakeholders are closely monitoring developments, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in law enforcement.
