Bangladeshi Connection in Saif Ali Khan Stabbing Case Sparks Political Controversy

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Arrest of Mohammad Shariful Islam Shehzad in Saif Ali Khan's stabbing case.
- Suspected to be a Bangladeshi national without valid Indian documentation.
- Political blame game ignited among BJP, Congress, and Shiv Sena (UBT).
- Call for enhanced security measures in residential areas.
- Debate on immigration policies and national security heightened.
New Delhi, Jan 19 (NationPress) The political environment has become more charged following the detainment of the suspect in the stabbing incident involving Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan. The Mumbai Police apprehended Mohammad Shariful Islam Shehzad on Sunday morning in Thane, Maharashtra, amid suspicions that he could be a Bangladeshi citizen, which has sparked a series of allegations and counter-claims among political factions.
Dikshit Gedam, DCP of the Crime Branch Mumbai, verified the arrest of Shehzad, who allegedly attacked Saif Ali Khan at his residence in Bandra in the early hours of Thursday.
“We have preliminary evidence indicating that the suspect is a Bangladeshi. He does not possess valid Indian documentation, and several items seized suggest he may not hold Indian citizenship,” Gedam stated at a press briefing.
As per the police report, the 30-year-old Shehzad entered Saif Ali Khan's residence with the intent to commit robbery. The actor suffered six stab wounds during a confrontation with the intruder and underwent multiple surgeries at Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital. He is currently recovering and is out of danger.
The arrest has triggered intense political debates. BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh praised the prompt action of the Mumbai Police and accused opposition parties of endorsing illegal immigration.
“The BJP has consistently opposed illegal immigrants. This unfortunate incident brings to light the issue of infiltrators. Parties such as Congress, AAP, and Shiv Sena (UBT) should cease their support for illegal immigrants,” Chugh informed IANS.
In a statement to IANS, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit demanded a comprehensive investigation, asserting, “If the suspect is indeed a foreign national, the situation becomes even more grave. The Mumbai Police must ensure justice.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey criticized the BJP for its inability to tackle the issue of illegal immigration.
“The BJP has held power at the Center for over ten years and in Maharashtra for more than two years. Allowing such individuals to roam freely and commit crimes reflects poorly on their administration,” he remarked.
The stabbing incident took place at 2 a.m. on January 16 at Saif Ali Khan's 12th-floor apartment in Bandra. The intruder reportedly gained access to the actor's residence via the staircase.
Eliyamma Philips, a staff member present during the incident, spotted the attacker and engaged in a struggle, during which she sustained injuries. Hearing her screams, Saif confronted the attacker, who stabbed him several times before fleeing.
The suspect, who allegedly used various aliases such as Vijay Das, Bijoy Das, and Mohammad Ilyas, had been living under a false identity in Mumbai for the past five to six months. He was captured in a joint operation near Hiranandani Estate, Thane, after being tracked through CCTV footage.
The suspect was later seen on CCTV purchasing headphones at a store in Dadar and boarding a train at Bandra station.
Maharashtra BJP MLA Ram Kadam stressed the necessity for enhanced security measures in residential areas.
“Low wages and continuous duties for security personnel compromise safety. The government will ensure the deportation of infiltrators and enforce stricter security protocols,” he asserted.
The Mumbai Police confirmed that Shehzad, who had previously worked in a pub, had been residing at various locations in Maharashtra. They also revealed he had altered his name to evade capture.
This case has sparked a discussion regarding national security and the management of illegal immigration.
Senior Congress leader Udit Raj underscored the escalating safety concerns in urban areas under the current administration.
“This incident highlights the urgent need to address unchecked mafia and gangster activities,” he told IANS.
As the investigation progresses, the arrest of Shehzad has brought attention to immigration regulations, security measures, and the need for political accountability in addressing these issues.