Calcutta HC Orders CBI To Probe Attack On ED Team In Sandeshkhali, Take Sheikh Shahjahan Into Custody

The central probe agency is expected to take custody of suspended TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan, who was arrested last week.

KOLKATA: In a significant political development, the Calcutta High Court, on Tuesday, directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to investigate the case related to the violent assault on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali on January 5. As per reports from news agency ANI, the bench, presided over by the Chief Justice, has also instructed the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to hand over the accused and TMC strongman Sheikh Shahjahan to the CBI by 4:30 PM today, accompanied by all relevant case documents.

Calcutta High Court transfers to CBI the Sandehskhali case which pertains to the attack on ED officials. CBI is also expected to take the custody of suspended TMC leader Shiekh Shahjahan.

— ANI (@ANI) March 5, 2024

Meanwhile, the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal has moved the Supreme Court to against the Calcutta High Court order directing the CBI probe in the Sandeshkhali matter. Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing on behalf of the state government, mentioned the plea before the Supreme Court to which the top court directed him to mention it before the registrar general.

Sheikh Shahjahan To Face CBI Inquiry

The focus of the CBI inquiry is expected to extend to Sheikh Shahjahan, the suspended Trinamool Congress leader, who was apprehended last week. Shahjahan, along with his associates, is implicated in cases involving land grabbing and sexual harassment, which has led to tumultuous protests in Sandeshkhali island, North 24 Parganas district.

Shahjahan Sheikh, evading authorities since January 5, was arrested after a mob of supporters attacked an ED team near his residence. The ED officials were on-site to conduct searches linked to an alleged ration scam.

BJP Welcomes HC Decision, TMC Stands Firm

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has embraced the High Court's decision, viewing it as a vindication of their stance on law and order in West Bengal. Conversely, the Trinamool Congress has maintained its stance, asserting that the state police were diligently fulfilling their duties.

High Court's Stern Warning To Sheikh Shahjahan

In a stern rebuke to Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates, the High Court emphasized that it harboured no sympathy for individuals implicated in criminal activities. This resolute stance reflects the judiciary's commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for victims.

Allegations Of Collusion And Misconduct

During the legal proceedings, allegations of collusion between the accused and state authorities emerged. Representatives from central agencies accused the state police of obstructing justice and diluting the severity of the charges.

The courtroom became a battleground for competing narratives, with arguments revolving around jurisdictional authority and the integrity of ongoing investigations. Both sides presented compelling arguments, underscoring the complexity of the legal landscape.

Call For Immediate Action

Amidst the legal wrangling, there was a unanimous call for swift and decisive action. The urgency of the situation necessitated immediate intervention to prevent further obstruction of justice and ensure the integrity of the investigative process.

Looking Ahead

As the case transitions into CBI custody, all eyes will be on the unfolding developments. The pursuit of truth and accountability remains paramount, underscoring the profound implications of this landmark legal decision.