Governor’s Report Exposes Collusion in Sandeshkhali: Law Enforcers Blamed

GG News Bureau
Kolkata, 15th Feb. West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has submitted a damning report to the Ministry of Home Affairs, alleging collusion between law enforcement authorities and “rowdy elements” in Sandeshkhali, where women have been protesting against alleged atrocities by ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Shajahan Sheikh and his followers, according to sources at Raj Bhavan.

In the report, Bose, who visited the troubled area and engaged with protesters on Monday, called for the formation of a Special Task Force or Special Investigation Team to investigate the allegations made by local residents.

“I have personally assessed the situation through direct engagement with the victims and extensive field visits in Sandeshkhali island. In my assessment, the situation there is highly deplorable,” Bose stated in the report to the Union Home Ministry.

The report outlined various allegations, including torture, sexual harassment of women, land grabbing for prawn cultivation, and coercion of villagers to withdraw complaints lodged with the police. It also criticized the failure of local authorities to instill confidence among the affected villagers.

Furthermore, the report identified some of Shajahan Sheikh’s followers who have allegedly been perpetrating violence in Sandeshkhali.
Describing the situation as “ghastly” and “shocking,” the report underscored the urgent need for decisive action. It highlighted instances where lawbreakers were reportedly colluding with law enforcement agencies, undermining the rule of law.

Sandeshkhali gained national attention after Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials were attacked by a mob during a raid on TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh’s premises on January 5. Sheikh has been absconding since the incident.

Governor Bose called for immediate action, including the arrest of gang leaders, providing assistance to victims, and the transfer of erring police officers.

“The rampant feeling among the victims that lawbreakers are in league with the law enforcement agencies militates against all norms of a civilized society,” the report emphasized.

Later, Governor Bose stated, “This report is addressed to the people of Bengal. Based on the responses I have received, I will formulate my directives to the government and formally present my views to them.”

In response to queries about visiting injured BJP state president Sukanta Majumdar, who was hurt during a protest against alleged TMC atrocities in Sandeshkhali, Mr. Bose confirmed his intention to visit him and other victims of violence.

Majumdar sustained injuries during a protest in Taki, North 24 Parganas district, where he climbed atop a police vehicle after being prevented from proceeding to Sandeshkhali.