Kolkata: The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) recommended President's Rule in Bengal amidst escalating violence and political tension following allegations of sexual assault by Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates in Sandeshkhali. NCSC Chairperson Arun Halder stated that criminals in the state, allegedly supported by the government, are adversely affecting the lives of Scheduled Caste communities. The NCSC delegation visited Sandeshkhali and submitted a report to President Droupadi Murmu, highlighting the lack of assistance from the Mamata Banerjee-led government in meeting the alleged assault victims. The village, located on an island in the Kalindi River, has become a battleground between the BJP and Trinamool.
Political tensions escalated as authorities barred delegations from the BJP and Congress, led by Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, from entering Sandeshkhali. Chowdhury criticized the state government for hindering opposition parties' access to the village, accusing them of politicizing the issue. The BJP delegation, headed by party chief JP Nadda, was also stopped and subsequently met with Governor CV Ananda Bose, alleging intimidation of Hindu women and unrest in Bengal.
The turmoil began in early January when the Enforcement Directorate attempted to raid Shahjahan's residence in connection with a ration distribution scam. Subsequent violence ensued, leading to injuries to ED personnel, and Shahjahan has been missing since then. Allegations of rape, land grabbing, and torture have surfaced, prompting a PIL in the Supreme Court calling for an inquiry by a special investigation team or the CBI. The SC petition also demands action against police officers who reportedly refused to register rape complaints.
Mamata Banerjee refuted the allegations, accusing the BJP of instigating trouble in Sandeshkhali ahead of the Lok Sabha election. She assured action against wrongdoers and highlighted arrests made, including that of a local Trinamool leader. However, critics continue to question the government's response, citing instances of intimidation and torture against women. The police denied allegations of sexual torture but acknowledged inquiries into the matter.
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