NCST Team in West Bengal to Investigate Tribal Complaints

Amidst political tensions before the Lok Sabha elections, a three-member NCST team led by Vice Chairperson Ananta Nayak has reached West Bengal to investigate allegations of sexual harassment of tribal women and land grabbing by individuals associated with the Trinamool Congress in Sandeshkhali.

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A three-member National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) team arrived in West Bengal on Wednesday to investigate complaints of sexual harassment of tribal women and land grabbing by individuals associated with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in Sandeshkhali of North 24 Parganas district.

NCST Team Led by Vice Chairperson Ananta Nayak

Led by Vice Chairperson Ananta Nayak, the team will inquire into the allegations and gather information related to the incidents. The commission has issued notices to the chief secretary of West Bengal and the state police head, requesting them to submit factual reports and details of actions taken within three days.

Political Uproar Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections

The NCST inquiry comes amid a politically charged atmosphere ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, with allegations of rape and harassment of women in Sandeshkhali gaining significant attention. The riverine Sandeshkhali area, located near the Sunderbans and approximately 100 kilometers from Kolkata, has witnessed protests after local women accused absconding TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan and his supporters of land grabbing and sexual assault.

Powers Conferred by Article 338A of the Constitution

The NCST has initiated the investigation based on the powers granted under Article 338A of the Constitution of India. The commission has requested the chief secretary and police head to provide information and details of actions taken regarding the allegations within three days. Failure to comply within the stipulated time may result in the exercise of powers similar to those of civil courts, including issuing summons to the concerned officials.

The NCST's investigation aims to address the concerns raised by tribal women in Sandeshkhali and ensure justice and protection of their rights. The findings and recommendations of the commission will be crucial in addressing the issues of sexual harassment and land grabbing in the region.