Trinamool Congress leader Jahangir Khan, alias 'Pushpa', from Falta in South 24 Parganas, was produced before the Diamond Harbour sub-divisional court on Tuesday, 9 June amid heavy security deployment, even as the local Bar Association announced that no advocate would represent him. The court appearance follows his dramatic arrest near the Nepal border by the West Bengal Police Special Task Force (STF), where he was allegedly attempting to flee the state.

Security Arrangements at the Court

Extensive security measures were put in place in and around the court premises well before proceedings began. A large contingent of police personnel and central forces was deployed, with multiple cordons established and strict checks enforced at all entry points. The district administration had been on high alert since morning, with authorities keeping a close watch to prevent any disruption or unrest during the hearing.

Bar Association Refuses to Defend the Accused

In an unusual development, the Diamond Harbour Criminal Court Bar Association declared that no member would appear on Khan's behalf. Bar Association secretary Sajal Mandal described Khan as a 'notorious criminal' and confirmed that no advocate was willing to take up his defence. The decision has sparked controversy over the right to legal representation, a fundamental protection under Indian law.

Charges and Legal Background

According to officials, Khan faces charges under multiple serious and non-bailable sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 117(2), 126(2), 305(B), 324(5), 109, and 308. Investigators said the range of sections reflects the gravity of the allegations, though specific details have been withheld to protect the ongoing probe. A prior case had been registered against him in 2019, and while he had obtained protection from coercive action from the Calcutta High Court, that relief was withdrawn on 26 May, clearing the path for his arrest.

Election Controversy and Disappearance

Khan, a close associate of Trinamool Congress (TMC) general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, had contested the Falta Assembly constituency seat. He withdrew from the race 48 hours before polling on 21 May, though his name remained on the electronic voting machine. When results were declared on 24 May, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won by a margin of over 1.09 lakh votes; Khan finished fourth with just 7,783 votes. He had been untraceable from the day results were announced until the STF apprehended him acting on a tip-off at the Nepal border.

What Comes Next

With no legal representation secured and charges spanning multiple non-bailable offences, Khan's custody is expected to continue as investigators proceed with the probe. The Bar Association's refusal to defend him raises broader questions about access to justice that courts may need to address. The case is likely to remain politically sensitive given Khan's reported proximity to senior TMC leadership.