Did the Calcutta HC Order a CBI Investigation into the 2019 Murder of BJP Workers in Sandeshkhali?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court has ordered a CBI investigation into the 2019 murder of three BJP workers in Sandeshkhali, revealing a web of political intrigue and allegations involving suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan. This significant ruling raises questions about the integrity of the state administration and its ties to powerful figures.
Key Takeaways
- The Calcutta High Court has ordered a CBI probe into the murder of three BJP workers.
- Sheikh Shahjahan, a suspended Trinamool Congress leader, is the principal accused.
- Shahjahan faces multiple serious charges including land grabbing and sexual harassment.
- The CBI is already investigating related cases involving Shahjahan.
- The ruling highlights concerns over political protection of criminals.
Kolkata, June 30 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court has mandated a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the tragic murder of three BJP workers in Sandeshkhali, located in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, which occurred in 2019.
Prominently accused in this case is the suspended Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan, who is also implicated in an assault against Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel outside his residence in January 2024.
Shahjahan faces multiple allegations, including participation in a multi-crore ration distribution scam in West Bengal, sexual harassment, and illegal land acquisition in Sandeshkhali. He is presently in judicial custody.
The CBI is actively investigating these three serious allegations, which include the assault on ED officials, sexual harassment, and land grabbing.
On Monday, Justice Jay Sengupta of the single-judge bench instructed the CBI to probe the murders of BJP workers Pradip Mondal, Debdas Mondal, and Sukanta Mondal, who were killed in June 2019, and formulated a special investigation team to undertake this task.
Shahjahan's name appeared in the initial chargesheet compiled by the district police of North 24 Parganas. However, after the state police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) assumed control of the case, his name was excluded from the chargesheet.
A lawsuit was subsequently filed in the Calcutta High Court, accusing the state police of providing protection to Shahjahan and calling for a CBI investigation.
Ultimately, Justice Sengupta's bench mandated a CBI investigation into the matter.
Expressing support for the Calcutta High Court's decision, Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, remarked that this ruling underscores the state administration's complicity in safeguarding criminals associated with the ruling Trinamool Congress and certain factions within the administration.
“I extend my gratitude to the Calcutta High Court for this landmark ruling directing a CBI reinvestigation into the horrific murders of the three BJP workers in Sandeshkhali. The High Court has once again acted as a savior for the powerless against the strong and influential,” Adhikari stated.
Point of View
I view the Calcutta High Court's order for a CBI probe as a pivotal moment for justice in West Bengal. The allegations surrounding political figures highlight the pressing need for transparency and accountability within the administration. This decision not only underscores the judiciary's role in upholding justice but also reflects the growing concerns over political influence in law enforcement.
NationPress
30/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the CBI investigation into the BJP workers' murder?
The investigation was triggered by allegations of police misconduct and a lack of progress in the original investigation, leading to demands for an independent inquiry by the CBI.
Who are the key figures involved in this case?
The key figure is Sheikh Shahjahan, a suspended Trinamool Congress leader, accused of being the principal perpetrator in the murders and involved in other criminal activities.
What are the broader implications of this ruling?
The ruling raises critical questions about political accountability and the integrity of law enforcement in West Bengal, potentially impacting future investigations involving political figures.
