In a major breakthrough, the Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police arrested fugitive Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Jahangir Khan near the Nepal border on Tuesday. Khan had been on the run for several weeks and was wanted in multiple cases including extortion, murder, and land grabbing.
Details of the Arrest
According to officials, Khan was apprehended from a hideout in the densely forested area along the India-Nepal border in North Bengal. Acting on a tip-off, a team of STF personnel conducted a coordinated operation and nabbed him without any resistance. He was later brought to Siliguri for further interrogation.
Background of the Case
Jahangir Khan, a local TMC leader from Murshidabad district, had been evading arrest since the registration of multiple FIRs against him. The charges include criminal intimidation, extortion, and involvement in a murder case. The police had declared a reward of Rs 50,000 for information leading to his capture.
His arrest comes ahead of the upcoming panchayat elections in West Bengal, where the TMC is facing stiff competition from opposition parties. The ruling party has been under scrutiny over law and order issues, with the opposition accusing it of shielding its leaders.
Political Reactions
The arrest has triggered a political slugfest. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress have welcomed the action, demanding a thorough investigation and strict punishment. Meanwhile, the TMC has distanced itself from Khan, stating that the party does not support anyone involved in criminal activities.
State BJP president Sukanta Majumdar said, "This arrest proves that the TMC has been patronizing criminals. The law must take its course." TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh responded, "The party has zero tolerance for crime. If anyone is guilty, they should face the consequences."
Legal Proceedings
Khan is expected to be produced before a local court, where the police will seek his custody for further interrogation. The STF is also probing his possible links with other criminal networks operating in the region. This arrest is seen as a significant step in the state's crackdown on organized crime.
