The Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee-led West Bengal government faced strong criticism from the Calcutta High Court on Thursday as it heard affidavits seeking probes into allegations of extortion, land grab and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali ahead of the Lok Sabha election.
A bench led by Chief Justice T S Sivagnanam expressed dismay at the allegations and emphasized that even if one affidavit is proven true, it would be shameful and undermine the claims of West Bengal being safe for women. The court held both the district administration of Sandeshkhali and the ruling Trinamool Congress party accountable, stating that they have 100 percent moral responsibility.
The NDTV quoted the Chief Justice as saying, “Even if one affidavit is correct, it is shameful. Even if one per cent is true it is absolutely shameful. West Bengal says it is safest for women? Even if one affidavit is proven to be right all of this falls.” He added, “Entire district administration and ruling party have 100 per cent moral responsibility”.
The court also criticised the lawyer representing Sheikh Shahjahan, the primary accused, who was arrested after evading authorities for nearly two months. The delay in his arrest was condemned by the court, which eventually reserved its verdict on the matter.
Earlier, the court had called for a fair investigation into the allegations against Sheikh Shahjahan and suggested involving the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the case.
The petitions heard by the court sought intervention to allow women in Sandeshkhali to voice their complaints without fear of repercussion. BJP leader Priyanka Tibrewal, representing the petitioners, highlighted the difficulties faced by the women in filing complaints and suggested the establishment of a commission or a website for easier access.
The Sandeshkhali issue has become a focal point of political debate, with opposition parties accusing Mamata Banerjee of shielding Sheikh Shahjahan. The BJP has fielded one of the women alleging sexual assault, Rekha Patra, as a candidate from the Basirhat seat.
Sandeshkhali came to the limelight on January 5 when an Enforcement Directorate team was attacked by a mob of supporters of Sheikh Shahjahan, who went into hiding immediately after the incident.
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