SANDESHKHALI: BENGAL GOVT MOVES SC AGAINST HC ORDER

The West Bengal government has moved the Supreme Court challenging the Calcutta High Court’s April 10 order directing a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali. A bench of justices BR Gavai and Sandeep Mehta is scheduled to hear the matter on April 29, 2024.

West Bengal has challenged the Calcutta High Court’s decision, arguing that it erroneously directed the CBI to investigate the complaints by the residents of Sandeshkhali. According to the plea, the High Court’s order disregards the conclusions of investigations into 43 FIRS, all resulting in charge sheets. The state government asserts that sidelining its actions in favor of political voices risks bias in the investigation.

Additionally, the state government contends that the High Court’s decision casts unjustified doubt on the State Police’s investigation efforts, overlooking the factual context and the steps taken by the state in diligently conducting the investigations. West Bengal further argues that the High Court’s observations are unwarranted and could undermine public confidence and tarnish the reputation of the Police Force. Earlier, in response to the Calcutta High Court’s directive, the CBI registered an FIR against five individuals and unknown others related to ongoing investigations into land grabs and crimes against women in Sandeshkhali.

The CBI’S involvement follows concerns over the area’s deteriorating law and order situation, with allegations of widespread criminal activities and exploitation.

The FIR marks the beginning of a thorough CBI investigation aimed at delivering justice to the victims and holding those responsible for the reported offenses accountable. Authorities anticipate further developments as the investigation progresses, emphasizing the importance of prompt and decisive action in addressing such issues.

Previously, the Calcutta High Court had ordered a court-monitored CBI investigation into alleged cases of sexual assault and land grabbing in

Sandeshkhali. Women in Sandeshkhali had protested against the ruling TMC and Shahjahan, accusing him and his associates of land grabbing and sexual assault under coercion.

Shahjahan was remanded to CBI custody by the Basirhat court, after which he was seen in tears outside the court premises. The incident was highlighted by BJP leader Amit Malviya, who commented on the changing circumstances for individuals like Shahjahan and others accused of crimes, emphasizing the consequences when the law catches up with them.