Kolkata: In a sweeping crackdown across West Bengal, more than a dozen functionaries of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) have been arrested within a span of 24 hours on charges ranging from extortion to post-poll violence and running illicit rackets. The arrests have triggered tensions in several areas, with central forces deployed to maintain order.
Arrests in Canning and Surrounding Areas
Chaos erupted in Canning following the arrest of Aritra Bose, the president of the Trinamool youth wing in the area. Bose is wanted for allegedly shooting a BJP worker on counting day. As police escorted him to Alipore court, a group of women surrounded the police station, prompting the deployment of central forces to prevent any untoward incident.
Anti-Extortion Drive Targets Local Leaders
In a targeted anti-extortion operation, authorities arrested Bidhannagar councillor Sushovan Mondal and Abhijit Polley. Both are accused of running extortion rackets in their respective areas. Additionally, Tarak De, a labour leader known to be close to former minister Jyotipriya Mallick, was taken into custody in Habra on similar charges.
In Murshidabad, Babul Mondal was arrested for his alleged involvement in extortion activities. Meanwhile, in Sandeshkhali, Sridam Hawli, an aide of controversial TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan, was apprehended. Shahjahan himself has been under scrutiny for various criminal cases.
Local Residents Apprehend Councillor in Bongaon
In a rare instance of citizen action, locals in Bongaon caught councillor Sukumar Roy and handed him over to the police. Roy faces accusations of extortion and other illegal activities. Similarly, in Ashoknagar, police arrested TMC members Moni Gazi and Sheikh Injamul.
Broader Context and Implications
The arrests come amid heightened political tensions in West Bengal following the recently concluded elections. The TMC has accused the ruling BJP of using central agencies to target its leaders, while the BJP claims the arrests are part of a legitimate crackdown on crime. The developments are likely to further strain relations between the two parties.
Authorities have stated that the crackdown will continue, with more arrests expected in the coming days. The police have urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement.
