Sandeshkhali Land Grab: Prime Accused Shibaprasad Hazra Arrested

Shibaprasad Hazra, a key figure in the Sandeshkhali land grab and sexual harassment case, has been apprehended by the police. The arrest follows the earlier capture of two other prime accused, Uttam Sardar and Shajahan Sheikh. With Hazras arrest, two out of the three main accused are now in custody.

In a significant development, the West Bengal Police have apprehended Shibaprasad Hazra, a prominent accused in the alleged land grab and sexual harassment case that has rocked Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district. Hazra, a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader, was nabbed from a hideout in Sandeshkhali on Saturday evening and will be presented before a local court on Sunday.

Fresh Arrests and IPC Sections Added

With Hazra's arrest, two of the three primary accused in the case have now been apprehended. Earlier, the police had arrested Uttam Sardar, while Shajahan Sheikh remains at large. The case has taken a new turn as the police have added IPC sections 376D (gangrape) and 307 (attempt to murder) after a survivor recorded her statement under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure before a magistrate.

Police Response and Investigation

Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Kumar addressed reporters, stating that the woman had not made any similar complaint when the police initially visited the area to investigate the allegations. He emphasized that the police are committed to maintaining peace and order and will take strict action against the culprits. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising 10 women officers has been formed to interact with women in the affected areas and address their concerns.

Addressing Allegations and Concerns

DGP Kumar acknowledged that no other woman in Sandeshkhali had made similar complaints, but stressed the importance of addressing such allegations. He assured that the police would review the situation in the area and consider removing the prohibitory orders implemented in certain pockets.

Background of the Case

Sandeshkhali gained attention after a mob attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials on January 5. The officials were conducting a search at the premises of Shajahan Sheikh in connection with an alleged ration distribution scam. Protesting women in Sandeshkhali accused Sheikh and his associates, including Hazra and Sardar, of forcibly capturing land and engaging in sexual harassment. The situation escalated, leading to prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the CrPC being imposed in several areas.

Addressing Land Grab Issue

Regarding the land grab allegations, DGP Kumar announced that teams from the state land department would set up camps and engage with locals to understand the extent of the problem. The police are also considering action against any erring police officers involved in the case.

The arrest of Shibaprasad Hazra marks a significant development in the Sandeshkhali case. The police are actively investigating the allegations, including the recent statement made by a survivor before a magistrate. The commitment to addressing the concerns of women in the area and ensuring justice for the victims is evident in the actions taken by the authorities. As the investigation progresses, further arrests and revelations are expected, bringing the perpetrators of these heinous crimes to account.