Kolkata: West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has condemned the ongoing situation in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas district, describing it as a grave occurrence in a civilized society. He urged the state government to take decisive action and requested a detailed report on the matter.
The Governor's remarks followed a plea from the BJP seeking his intervention in the violent protests that erupted in Sandeshkhali. Prohibitory orders were imposed under Section 144 of the CrPC after local women staged demonstrations demanding the arrest of missing TMC leader Sheikh Shajahan and his associates.
In a video message released by the Raj Bhavan on Saturday night, CV Ananda Bose stated, "The incident in Sandeshkhali highlights the dire circumstances faced by its residents, particularly women who have reportedly been subjected to harassment and assault. It is imperative for the government to act swiftly and decisively to restore order."
He emphasized that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands, underscoring the government's responsibility to maintain law and order. He acknowledged the presence of prohibitory orders, police deployment, and ongoing legislative proceedings, warning against any attempts to disrupt civil society.
Bose assured that appropriate action would be taken upon receiving the government's report on the matter.
The protests in Sandeshkhali were fueled by allegations against Sheikh Shajahan and his supporters, who were accused of forcibly occupying land and sexually harassing local women. The situation escalated after Sheikh Shajahan went missing following an attack on Enforcement Directorate officials conducting a raid at his residence in connection with an alleged ration scam.
Addressing the incident, Bose emphasized that the rule of law must prevail and denounced any notion of Bengal being a lawless state. He pledged collective efforts to address the ongoing turmoil within certain segments of Bengal society.
Meanwhile, Suvendu Adhikari, BJP MLA and Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, decried the violation of human rights in Sandeshkhali. He led a delegation of BJP MLAs to the Raj Bhavan, urging the Governor's intervention to restore peace in the area.
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