In response to allegations of sexual assault in Sandeshkhali, the West Bengal police has escalated charges against local Trinamool Congress leaders Shiboprasad Hazra and Uttam Sardar, now including gang rape and attempt to murder. These charges stem from the deposition made by a survivor before a Magistrate under Section 164 of CrPC.
Mr. Hazra, the Trinamool Congress leader accused of sexual assault and torture, was apprehended by police from Nazat in Sandeshkhali on Saturday evening.
West Bengal’s Director General of Police Rajeev Kumar stated that the survivor’s testimony was given before the Magistrate, emphasizing the significance of this formal complaint amidst the Sandeshkhali violence. Previously, on February 14, the West Bengal police had tweeted that no allegations of rape had been received.
Asserting their commitment to uncover the truth, the DGP reiterated the police’s readiness to act upon any evidence presented to them. While Mr. Sardar remains in custody, Mr. Hazra was arrested from a hideout in Nazat.
Additionally, the administration plans to review prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC to minimize disruptions to normal life and livelihoods. Opposition leaders were previously barred from visiting the area due to imposed prohibitory orders.
