On 6th March, Sheikh Shahjahan, a suspended Trinamool Congress leader facing accusations of violence and criminal activities, was placed in CBI custody as directed by the Calcutta High Court. The transfer underscores the existing tensions between state and central authorities.
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KOLKATA: On Wednesday(6th March), Sheikh Shahjahan, a suspended leader of the Trinamool Congress, is now in the custody of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) amidst controversy surrounding accusations of inciting violence and engaging in criminal activities.
Sheikh Shahjahan, accused of leading a mob attack against a team of Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials in Sandeshkhali, was handed over to the CBI, following a fresh directive from the Calcutta High Court. Prior to this transfer, Shahjahan was under the care of the West Bengal Police’s CID but was moved from their headquarters after undergoing a medical examination at SSKM Hospital.
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The Calcutta High Court had earlier mandated the West Bengal government to transfer Shahjahan’s custody to the CBI by 4:15 pm, responding to the CBI’s plea. The court’s decision came after allegations surfaced against Shahjahan, accusing him of land grab and sexual harassment, as reported by several women in Sandeshkhali. The CBI’s request highlighted the state’s alleged non-compliance with the court’s previous orders, leading to accusations of contempt against the West Bengal government.
The Additional Solicitor General (ASG) SV Raju, representing the ED, criticized the state government’s reluctance to comply with the High Court’s directive, stating-
“There is no order staying the High Court order. This is contempt of the High Court order. It cannot wait…the purpose of the order is frustrated then.”
The CBI’s legal counsel echoed these concerns, revealing that the High Court’s order had been communicated to all relevant West Bengal officials, including the Director General of Police (DGP) and the Chief Secretary. Despite these communications, a letter from the DGP indicated a delay, mentioning that the matter was under the Supreme Court’s consideration, leading to a contentious exchange.
“What kind of statement is this, and that too from the deputy general of police, CID,”
-remarked the CBI’s counsel, highlighting the tension between the state’s law enforcement and the central investigation agency.
The situation was further complicated by the Bengal government’s decision to approach the Supreme Court, seeking to challenge the High Court’s ruling. Despite this, the Supreme Court declined the state government’s request for an urgent hearing, maintaining that the matter should be presented before Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud for scheduling.
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The High Court, demonstrating its commitment to enforcing its orders, issued a notice of contempt against the Bengal CID, demanding an affidavit within two weeks. This legal standoff underscores the ongoing conflict between state and central authorities, particularly in the context of federalism and judicial oversight.
Sheikh Shahjahan’s case has become a focal point in the political issues surrounding Sandeshkhali, an area already fraught with allegations of harassment, land grab, and extortion. His arrest by Bengal police after 52 days on the run marked a significant moment in the state’s political narrative, especially as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Trinamool Congress of protecting the accused and undermining justice for Sandeshkhali’s residents.
The Trinamool Congress’s decision to expel Shahjahan for six years reflects the party’s attempt to distance itself from the controversy. However, the BJP has countered by questioning the efficacy of central agencies, which failed to apprehend Shahjahan for an extended period.
