Tensions flared in West Bengal as the state police allegedly obstructed the BJP’s fact-finding committee from reaching Sandeshkhali, triggering a standoff between the authorities and the political delegation. Meanwhile, Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury also faced impediments as he attempted to proceed to the troubled region, resulting in a sit-in protest.
Sandeshkhali, a region in North 24 Parganas, has been engulfed in protests following allegations of land grabbing and sexual harassment against local TMC leaders. In response to the escalating situation, BJP chief JP Nadda assembled a six-member fact-finding team, including Union ministers and MPs, to investigate the matter and provide assistance to the victims.
Upon their arrival at Rampur village, a scuffle erupted between the BJP delegation and the police, leading to hours of protest as the team was denied passage to Sandeshkhali. Despite efforts to engage with the authorities, including attempts to speak with women in Sandeshkhali via video call, the delegation was ultimately redirected to the West Bengal Raj Bhavan.
Union minister Annapurna Devi condemned the obstruction, labeling it as unconstitutional and unethical, emphasizing the delegation’s intention to support the victims. The BJP’s frustration was echoed by South Asansol MLA Agnimitra Paul, who criticized the state government’s apparent reluctance to facilitate their visit to Sandeshkhali.
Adding to the chorus of criticism, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Pratima Bhowmik denounced Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for allegedly fostering an environment conducive to criminal activities. BJP leaders highlighted the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability.
However, the BJP’s efforts were met with skepticism from Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, who questioned the motives behind the obstruction and accused the BJP and TMC of collusion. Despite facing obstacles, Chowdhury reiterated the importance of addressing the grievances of the affected residents.
As the political standoff unfolded, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh urged against politicizing the issue, emphasizing the responsibility of the state government to ensure law and order. Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress MP Santanu Sen criticized the BJP’s actions, invoking the Hathras incident as a point of comparison.
With tensions escalating and political divisions deepening, the situation in Sandeshkhali remains precarious, highlighting the challenges facing both the authorities and the political parties in addressing the grievances of the affected residents.
