Absconding Trinamool Congress leader, Sheikh Shahjahan, was arrested after being on the run for 55 days. Following his appearance in court, he was brought to the CID headquarters and his case is likely to be handed over to the CID. The police arrested him for his involvement in cases of land grab and sexual harassment. The senior police official urged leaders to avoid creating division in the Sandeshkhali area.
Trinamool Congress leader Shahjahan Sheikh, known as the strongman of Sandeshkhali, has finally been apprehended by the West Bengal Police after evading arrest for 55 days. He was a key suspect in cases of land encroachment and sexual harassment, which came to light during violent protests in Sandeshkhali. The police had been closely monitoring his activities before finally arresting him after the Calcutta High Court clarified on Monday that there was no stay on his arrest. TMC leaders have commended the government for its actions, while the BJP has taken credit for putting pressure on the government to act.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognisance of a complaint filed by the wife of a journalist alleging unlawful detention and assault by police while covering a story in West Bengal. The NHRC has issued a notice to the state's Director General of Police and directed for a report to be submitted in two weeks. The Supreme Court has also commented on the importance of a free press in a democracy.