Is the Widow of a Slain BJP Worker in Bengal Facing Threats to Her Life?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Pampa Mondal seeks protection from alleged threats.
- The CBI is now investigating the murder of three BJP workers.
- Concerns about political influence affecting justice are raised.
- Witness safety is crucial in high-profile cases.
- The response from BJP leaders highlights ongoing tensions in West Bengal.
Kolkata, July 9 (NationPress) Pampa Mondal, the widow of one of the three Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) workers killed in Sandeshkhali, located in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal in 2019, has reached out to Praveen Sood, the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), alleging that her life is in danger and requesting immediate security.
The CBI recently took charge of the murder investigation concerning the three BJP workers—Pradip Mondal, Debdas Mondal, and Sukanta Mondal—who were slain in June 2019. The main suspect in this case is Sheikh Shahjahan, a now suspended leader from the Trinamool Congress in Sandeshkhali.
Pampa Mondal is the widow of Pradip Mondal.
The investigation was transferred to the CBI following an order from the Calcutta High Court earlier this month.
In her letter, Pampa Mondal stated, "My husband was brutally murdered in 2019 by Kader Molla and Sheikh Shahjahan, who are part of a notorious criminal gang with a history of illegal activities in our region. The local police ignored this case earlier due to political pressures. However, the recent intervention by the Calcutta High Court shows the seriousness of the matter," she wrote to the CBI Director.
Additionally, she claimed that threats against her and other individuals involved in the case have persisted.
Pampa Mondal alleged that a clandestine meeting took place involving members of the criminal group, including Kader Molla, Sajet Sheikh, Alam Sheikh, and Azgar, where plans were made to eliminate her and other witnesses.
Moreover, she mentioned that Alam Sheikh has been in contact with a contract killer to carry out these plans.
"Given these circumstances, I earnestly request your assistance in ensuring my safety and the protection of other crucial witnesses," her letter stated.
She urged the CBI Director to take prompt steps to investigate the clandestine meeting and expedite the investigation into her husband's murder.
Pampa Mondal emphasized that apprehending the suspects was crucial to prevent further loss of life.
In response to her letter, Amit Malviya, the BJP's IT Cell Chief and the party's central observer for West Bengal, remarked that this situation represents a direct attack on justice.
"One of the primary suspects, Sheikh Shahjahan, is currently in custody of central agencies, yet previous charges against him were dismissed by the Bengal CID, which is under the purview of Home Minister and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. This situation reveals the state’s intentions. If witnesses are afraid for their lives, can we expect justice to be served? Under the Trinamool Congress, West Bengal has become a graveyard for civil rights and democracy," he stated.