In response to reports of severe violence and intimidation against women in Sandeshkhali village, West Bengal, the National Commission for Women (NCW) took action. NCW chairperson Rekha Sharma met with President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday and recommended the imposition of President’s Rule in the state.
The NCW team, after visiting Sandeshkhali, documented disturbing testimonies from numerous women. They alleged sexual harassment and land grabbing by local leaders, including Shajahan Sheikh, who was evading arrest following an attack on Enforcement Directorate officials on January 5. The fact-finding report highlighted widespread fear and systematic abuse, implicating both police officers and members of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).
Rekha Sharma emphasized that Sandeshkhali is not an isolated incident but part of a pattern of violence in the state. She expressed frustration over the lack of action by the state government in previous cases. Therefore, the NCW recommended President’s Rule to President Droupadi Murmu, who assured Sharma of closely monitoring the situation.
The National Commission for Scheduled Caste (NCSC) had previously made a similar recommendation, reflecting growing concerns about governance and law enforcement in West Bengal.
The Calcutta High Court, responding to the situation, ordered the transfer of the investigation into the attack on ED officials in Sandeshkhali from the West Bengal Police to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The court criticized the state police, stating they were “totally biased” and directed the custody of Shajahan Sheikh, arrested by West Bengal police on February 29, to be handed over to the central agency.
The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for impartial investigation and accountability. It also reflects broader calls for intervention to address the ongoing violence and breakdown of law and order in parts of West Bengal.
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