New Delhi:
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) today registered a case against Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan, the central figure in the Sandeshkhali row in West Bengal, on money laundering charges.
Raids are underway at Sheikh Shahjahan's house and six other locations.
The women in Sandeshkhali have accused Sheikh Shahjahan of being involved in land grabbing activities and committing sexual assault, allegedly using coercive means.
Shahjahan has been evading law enforcement ever since a gang, allegedly linked to him, attacked ED officials during a search operation in connection with a ration scam on January 5. The incident not only heightened tensions but also raised concerns about the influence and power that Shahjahan wielded. his followers in the region.
The situation has led to a crackdown by the state police, resulting in the arrest of Shahjahan's aides Shibu Hazra and Uttam Sardar. However, Shahjahan remains missing. With 17 arrests made so far, police are urging villagers to come forward with their complaints and organize camps in the area to address concerns related to land grabbing and extortion.
The BJP has accused the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress of protecting its strongman.