Sheikh Shahjahan: From humble driver to controversial TMC strongman, key figure in Sandeshkhali row

TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan (File photo)

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) government, led by Mamata Banerjee, received a major respite in the Sandeshkhali sexual harassment case, with the Supreme Court's intervention on February 19, issuing a stay on the notice from the Parliament Ethics Committee. The Sandeshkhali unrest has escalated into a significant political controversy, with Chief Minister Banerjee attributing the turmoil to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) camp. In counterpoint, the BJP and the National Commission for Women (NCW) have levelled allegations against Banerjee's party and the state administration, alleging complicity in crimes against women in the region.

Allegations of Sexual Harassment Rock Sandeshkhali

In Sandeshkhali, grave allegations of sexual harassment have surfaced, implicating TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh, with many women stepping forward to share their accounts. Demands for Sheikh's immediate arrest have surged, echoing the calls for justice from many women in the area. Shahjahan has remained elusive ever since an Enforcement Directorate (ED) team was assaulted by a mob during a raid on his residence in January, linked to an alleged multi-crore ration scam.

The federal probe agency has unearthed a ration scam of more than Rs 1,000 crore in West Bengal, involving the alleged diversion of commodities meant for distribution through the Public Distribution System (PDS) to the open market.

Also Read | Sandeshkhali: SC stays action against top Bengal officials after BJP files complaint

Shahjahan Accused of Land Grab and Sexual Harassment

A large number of women have made allegations against Shahjahan and his associates, claiming they forcibly took over vast land areas and engaged in instances of sexual harassment. Since the violent incident on January 5, when the mob attacked the ED officers during the raid at his house, Shahjahan has been evading authorities.

The recent report by the NCW following its visit to the Sandeshkhali region has exposed alarming levels of fear and organised abuse. The report highlights the involvement of not only police officials but also members of the TMC in the systematic mistreatment of residents.

Who is Sheikh Shahjahan?

The Sandeshkhali controversy revolves around Sheikh Shahjahan.

Shahjahan, a prominent leader within the TMC, holds considerable influence across a broad geographical area, extending from Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas to Malancha in South 24 Parganas. He is recognised as one of the party's key figures in the region, known for his involvement in diverse sectors such as bheris (fisheries), brick kilns, transportation, and vegetable syndicates.

Also Read | Sandeshkhali and the emerging political narrative in Bengal

From Trekker Driver to Political Figure

His journey has been truly remarkable. Shahjahan started as a trekker driver and part-time vegetable vendor back in 1999. However, in 2003, he ventured into politics, taking inspiration from his uncle Moslem Sheikh, who was associated with the CPM and later elected as the panchayat pradhan.

From Driver to Criminal Kingpin: Shahjahan's Rise to Power

Reports suggest that Shahjahan abandoned his role as a driver and delved into criminal activities, asserting dominance over local water bodies and engaging in illicit land transactions. Over time, he gained prominence in North 24 Parganas. He and his uncle wielded huge influence in the region, to the extent that despite the Left facing successive electoral setbacks from 2009 onwards, they maintained their grip on power in his part of North 24 Parganas.

Shahjahan's Political Journey

The 42-year-old Shahjahan began his political career in 2004 as a union leader representing workers in the brick kilns. Later, he became associated with the local unit of the CPM, where he continued to play an active role despite the evolving political dynamics in West Bengal. Known for his fiery speeches and organisational abilities, Shahjahan drew the attention of TMC leadership in 2012.

Shahjahan's Rise within TMC

Currently serving as the president of the Sandeshkhali TMC unit, Shahjahan formed an alliance with the TMC in 2013, under the leadership of Jyotipriya Mullick, breaking away from his uncle's association with the CPM. Establishing his own faction within the party, Shahjahan gradually expanded his influence and business ventures, while also taking on various responsibilities within the TMC hierarchy.

Shahjahan's Reputation as a Mediator in Family Disputes 

In 2018, Shahjahan's stature grew further when he assumed the role of deputy head of the Sarberia Agarhati gram panchayat. His younger brothers are actively involved in the TMC and oversee his business affairs, which include land deals. Additionally, Shahjahan is regarded as a key figure for conflict resolution in the area, often mediating in family disputes and land disagreements.

Revered as a Messiah by Some, Feared as a Terror by Others

As per a local TMC leader quoted by news agency PTI, Shahjahan evokes both respect and fear within the region. "To some, he is a messiah; to his detractors, he is a terror. He carries a Robin Hood image in the area," the TMC leader said.

Despite his involvement in criminal cases, Shahjahan has played a key role in curbing child trafficking, earning recognition for his efforts in making Sarberia Agarhati gram panchayat a 'Child-Friendly Gram Panchayat' in 2019, the news agency reported.

Shahjahan Named in Murder FIR in Sandeshkhali

After the violent clashes between BJP and TMC workers in Sandeshkhali following the Lok Sabha polls in June 2019, which resulted in casualties on both sides, Sheikh found himself embroiled in a murder First Information Report (FIR) related to the incident.