The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday directed a CBI inquiry into accusations of crimes against women and coercive land acquisition in Sandeshkhali, West Bengal, which had witnessed massive protests over the issues.
A division bench, presided over by Chief Justice T S Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharyya, ordered the CBI to submit a comprehensive report regarding the alleged illegal conversion of agricultural land into water bodies for pisciculture. The submission has been mandated till the next hearing i.e. May 2.
The CBI was already investigating the January 5 assault by supporters of TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials. The officials were attacked when they were conducting a raid at his residence in Sandeshkhali-I as part of an ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in the state’s public distribution system.
On February 5, local women in the village demanded the arrest of Sheikh and his associates, accusing them of sexual abuse and harassment. Villagers also alleged Sheikh’s involvement in forcibly acquiring their lands.
After evading authorities for 55 days, Sheikh was arrested by state police on February 29, leading to his suspension from the TMC. Subsequently, he was handed over to the CBI as per court orders.