Tensions escalated in West Bengal after a harrowing attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials during raids in 15 locations across the state, including the residence of TMC leader Sheikh Sajahan. The incident drew sharp criticism from West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, who condemned the assault as “alarming, deplorable, and ghastly.”
In a stern rebuke to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, Governor Bose emphasized that Bengal should not be reduced to a “banana republic,” urging an immediate halt to “barbarism and vandalism” within the democratic framework. He cautioned that the Constitution of India would intervene if the state administration failed in its fundamental responsibilities.
“This pre-election violence must cease promptly. It marks the beginning of the end,” remarked Governor Bose, underscoring the urgency to address the escalating turmoil.
The confrontation occurred when supporters of Sheikh Sajahan assaulted ED officials during the raid at his residence in North 24 Parganas district, resulting in the mob also vandalizing their vehicles. Sajahan, a close associate of Bengal minister Jyotipriyo Mallick, faced the ED’s scrutiny, sparking the violent altercation.
As the situation unfolded, the ED officers found themselves surrounded by a large gathering of TMC supporters, leading to physical altercations. The officials were compelled to abandon their damaged vehicles and seek refuge using autorickshaws and two-wheelers, with two officers requiring hospitalization due to injuries sustained in the attack.
Responding to the incident, TMC Minister Shashi Panja alleged that the central forces accompanying the investigative agencies had provoked the TMC supporters, although she reiterated that the party does not condone any form of violence.
Meanwhile, the West Bengal BJP has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to initiate a probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into the assault, adding a political dimension to the already contentious situation.
The escalation of violence during the ED raids has raised concerns about the intensifying political confrontations in the state ahead of upcoming elections, prompting widespread calls for immediate measures to curb such incidents and restore peace and democratic order.
Sources By Agencies
