Assault on ED: Guv questions delay in TMC leader's arrest

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose expressed his anger over the delay in the arrest of Shahjahan Sheikh, main accused in the attack on ED officials. Earlier, the TMC leader's name surfaced in the ration scam besides some other cases of corruption.

Kolkata:Amid speculations over the whereabouts of TMC leader Sahajahan Sheikh, the prime accused in the assault case on ED officials, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose, who is peeved at the investigation process, sought a five-point explanation from Mamata Banerjee-led government regarding the investigation process.

Bose also directed police to investigate Shahjahan's alleged connections with terrorists over concern that he "may have crossed the border". The Governor held a meeting on Sunday evening with the CRPF IG and top brass of ED. Bose held a detailed discussion with them on the Sandeshkhali issue.

Bose sought explanations from the state government holding it responsible for the failure to arrest the accused in the ration scam. Besides, he pulled up the state government for its failure to arrest Shahjahan Sheikh, an accused in the said scam.

He also sought information on whether Shahjahan had crossed over to Bangladesh. The Governor also asked the state government to take stringent action against police officials for 'dereliction of duties'.

On Saturday night, Bose gave 'specific instructions' to the state government for the immediate arrest of TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh, the Raj Bhavan said.

“A complaint at the Peace Room of Raj Bhavan says that Shahjahan Sheikh is backed by some political leaders with the connivance of some police officers, Hon’ble Governor instructed the (state) police chief to arrest the culprit forthwith and report compliance. Failing which, his whereabouts may be ascertained and appropriate action taken. The complaint that he has crossed the border and he has liaison with terrorists may be enquired into immediately,” the Raj Bhawan said in the statement.

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