Sandeshkhali row : Villagers beat up TMC leader Ajit Maity with slippers amid unrest

Accused of colluding with Shahjahan Sheikh, the primary suspect in the alleged sexual exploitation of Hindu women

Kolkata – In a tumultuous incident on 23rd February, Trinamool Congress leader Ajit Maity faced a severe attack by villagers in Sandeshkhali, North 24 Parganas District of Bengal. He endured physical assault, including being struck with shoes, while his residence was ransacked by infuriated villagers. The attack extended to damaging his motorcycle and a portion of the house’s fence. Villagers levelled accusations against him, alleging his involvement in seizing village land and collaborating with Trinamool Congress leader Shahjahan Sheikh, the purported mastermind behind the sexual exploitation of Hindu women. In response to the incident, law enforcement promptly intervened, managing to pacify the agitated villagers.

Shahjahan Sheikh, facing as many as 100 cases related to land grabbing and sexual exploitation of women, remains elusive for the past 55 days.

Sheikh Shahjahan’s brother faced a grave incident as his house was set ablaze by villagers. Allegations against Sheikh Shahjahan’s brother, Shirajuddin, include the unlawful acquisition of 142 bighas (88 acres) of villagers’ land. In response to the turmoil, law enforcement promptly arrived at the scene to address the situation. Presently, to maintain order, an additional police force has been deployed in the jurisdiction of two Police stations in Sandeshkhali, with Section 144 in effect.

Ajit Maity’s Ordeal

Ajit Maity stated that his motorcycle was vandalised and his wife was attacked. As his daughter is currently attending her exams, there is a heightened concern for her safety amid these unsettling events.

Editorial Perspective

It might not be surprising that Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, seemingly insensitive to the protection of Hindu women’s modesty, has now expressed concern, attributing the attack on ‘Hinduism.’ The discontent among the Hindus in Bengal, who feel unjustly detained, is a result of the Government and the Police. Considering this, some advocate for the dissolution of the State Government and the imposition of the President’s Rule by the Union Government.