Sandeshkhali: West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee shielding accused, alleges BJP; TMC hits back

New Delhi, February 27

The BJP on Tuesday fired another salvo at West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee over the Sandeshkhali issue, alleging she had given “protection” to TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh due to her “appeasement politics”. Hitting back, the TMC claimed the state government was taking action on allegations of sexual atrocities and land grab in Sandeshkhali.

Appeasement matters more than justice for the state’s ruling party, BJP spokesperson Prem Shukla said, demanding immediate arrest of the TMC strongman, the key accused in the case.

Later, addressing a press conference, TMC leaders Sushmita Dev and Sagarika Ghose said, “Why BJP leaders are not talking about crime against women in Manipur, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan? What they have done to protect women in these states?”

Sheikh has been evading authorities since an attack on Enforcement Directorate officials on January 5, as they attempted to search his residence regarding an alleged ration distribution scam.

On the delay in filing an FIR and Sheikh’s arrest, TMC leaders clarified the process was underway, with nearly 20 individuals associated with him already apprehended. They assured Sheikh would be arrested soon. “Mamata Benerjee is not like Narendra Modi. She would visit Sandeshkhali soon,” said Sushmita.

“The funds of several scheme like MGNREGA and PM Awas Yojna were not released to the state and people are suffering. They (Centre) are even deactivating Aadhaar cards to deprive Bengalis of benefits of welfare schemes,” alleged Ghose, adding that the state government would not go to Delhi with a begging bowl.

Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai on Tuesday wrote to Banerjee seeking strict action against culprits in the case.

ISF MLA held, Cong delegation stopped

• Indian Secular Front (ISF) MLA Nausad Siddique was held for violating prohibitory orders
• Cops also prevented senior Congress leaders from going towards Sandeshkhali

Former MLA gets bail

• The Calcutta HC granted bail to Sandeshkhali’s former CPM MLA Nirapada Sardar
• He was arrested for alleged involvement in violent protests in the restive area