In a significant development, former Calcutta High Court judge and recently inducted Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) member Abhijit Gangopadhyay advocated for the imposition of President's rule in West Bengal, citing what he described as a state of lawlessness and disorder. Gangopadhyay delivered this assertion during his inaugural public address since joining the BJP, which took place in Siliguri on Saturday.
Expressing concerns over the prevailing law and order situation in the state, Gangopadhyay asserted, "The law and order of the state is in shambles. Police harass people by the order of seniors. I was asked if the President's rule should be imposed in Bengal. I say yes."
Gangopadhyay's remarks were made in the context of a broader discourse surrounding the governance issues plaguing West Bengal, particularly under the leadership of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. He criticized Banerjee for her alleged absence in addressing critical issues, such as the situation in Sandeshkhali.
Taking aim at Trinamool Congress (TMC) Member of Parliament Nusrat Jahan, representing the Basirhat constituency encompassing Sandeshkhali, Gangopadhyay reproached her for what he perceived as misplaced priorities, accusing her of neglecting the concerns of the village residents in favor of other engagements.
The unrest in Sandeshkhali, situated in the North 24 Parganas district, stems from a series of events starting in January when an Enforcement Directorate (ED) team was attacked during a raid at the residence of TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan. Subsequent allegations of sexual exploitation and land grabbing against Shahjahan and his associates further escalated tensions, leading to Shahjahan's eventual arrest after a 55-day evasion from authorities.Â
In response to the turmoil, various delegations, including the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and the National Commission for Women, visited Sandeshkhali, with some recommending the imposition of President's rule in West Bengal to address the grievances of the affected communities.
