The West Bengal Police took action against Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders Uttam Sardar and Shibaprasad Hazra, who are closely associated with Sheikh Shahjahan, after women in Sandeshkhali filed a written complaint against them, resulting in a case being registered.
Shibaprasad Hazra, also known as Shibu Hazra, a prominent figure within the Trinamool Congress, was apprehended by law enforcement officials on Saturday concerning allegations of sexual harassment brought forth by women in Sandeshkhali. Simultaneously, the police added charges of gang rape against Shibaprasad Hazra and Uttam Sardar, both of whom are TMC leaders and confidants of the absconding party member, Sheikh Shahjahan.
The legal action was initiated following a written complaint filed by the women of Sandeshkhali, prompting law enforcement authorities to register a case against the two TMC leaders. The complaint led to the invocation of Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to the punishment for offenses such as assault or the use of criminal force against a woman to outrage her modesty.
Subsequently, the complainant provided a statement before a magistrate, alleging gang rape rather than molestation, prompting the court to instruct the police to include charges of gang rape against the accused TMC leaders. Uttam Sardar and Shibaprasad Hazra now face charges under Section 376D of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with the offense of gang rape.
While Uttam Sardar was apprehended last week and subsequently suspended from the Trinamool Congress for six years, Shibaprasad Hazra's arrest came in light of the grave allegations against him. The developments in Sandeshkhali have garnered significant attention, prompting West Bengal Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar to emphasize the police's commitment to investigating the matter thoroughly. He assured that stringent legal action would be taken against anyone found guilty, irrespective of their position or affiliation.
Moreover, Rajeev Kumar underscored the importance of cooperation from the media and urged reporters to alert the police about any additional credible cases that may surface. Despite the complexities surrounding the case, the police have reiterated their determination to uphold the law and restore normalcy in Sandeshkhali by gradually lifting the prohibitory orders under Section 144.
