Bengal Governor Bose hails arrest of TMC leader Shahjahan, expects end to state violence

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose. (File photo)

West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose lauded the arrest of TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh on February 29, asserting that it marks a pivotal moment in quelling the ongoing unrest in the state. Describing Shahjahan's arrest as an "eye-opener" for all, he highlighted the necessity for robust measures to tackle the prevailing lawlessness in the state.

The arrest of Shahjahan, implicated in the Sandeshkhali case, followed the governor's issuance of a 72-hour ultimatum to the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.

Addressing the media, Governor Bose said, "Today in Bengal, we witness the dawn of change. The arrest of the key figure in the Sandeshkhali incidents serves as a wake-up call. This is but the initial step...".

"We must put a stop to the violence in Bengal. In several areas of Bengal, it's clear that gangsters operate without restraint, avoiding law enforcement. What we see is just the tip of the iceberg. 'Gundaraj' is prevalent in many parts of Bengal. Swift and decisive action is necessary. This issue must be addressed promptly," the Bengal Governor added.

Bose said: “I assured you there would be light at the end of the tunnel. That is democracy in action—a lesson for all. Let us now anticipate the return of a new era of lawfulness to Bengal. I am glad that good things are happening.”

Bose earlier wrote a letter to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, urging the state administration to arrest fugitive Shahjahan within a strict timeframe of 72 hours. Shahjahan is accused of several crimes, including land-grabbing and sexual assault, in the Sandeshkhali area of the Sundarban.

Additionally, the West Bengal Governor had urged the state government to furnish a report within the specified 72-hour timeframe if they fail to apprehend the main culprit involved in the serious crimes of sexual violence and land encroachment.

Following the ruling from the Calcutta High Court on February 26 evening, Bose conveyed to the state government the urgent necessity of promptly apprehending the primary suspect in the Sandeshkhali incidents, Shajahan Sheikh. In his communication, Bose emphasised that the failure to execute the arrest within the stipulated timeframe would require the submission of detailed reasons for the delay within 72 hours.