Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Jan 3: Tensions flared in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district after a police team came under attack while attempting to stop alleged illegal construction in the Nazat police station area, officials said on Saturday.
Several police personnel sustained injuries when a group of locals allegedly pelted bricks and stones at them. A police vehicle was also damaged during the violence. So far, eight people have been arrested in connection with the incident, while several others, including the head of the Boyarmari II Gram Panchayat, have been detained for questioning.
The incident occurred late Friday night in the Chuchura area under Boyarmari II Gram Panchayat, which falls within the jurisdiction of the Nazat police station in the Basirhat subdivision. Police reached the spot after receiving complaints about construction activity on a disputed plot of land.
According to police sources, prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure were in force on the land following a court directive. Despite this, construction work was allegedly being carried out in violation of the order.
Investigators claim that supporters of Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan—currently lodged in a correctional facility—were behind the attempt to resume construction. When police ordered the work to stop, the group reportedly refused to comply, leading to a heated exchange.
The situation soon escalated, with the mob allegedly attacking the police using bricks and stones. A police vehicle was vandalised before additional forces were rushed to the area to bring the situation under control. A heavy police presence has since been deployed to prevent further unrest.
Senior police officials said strict legal action would be taken against those involved in illegal construction, violation of court orders and the assault on police personnel. An investigation is ongoing, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend all remaining suspects.
A senior officer from Basirhat Police confirmed the arrests and said searches were continuing.
The incident has revived memories of earlier violence linked to Sheikh Shahjahan. In January 2024, Enforcement Directorate officials were attacked by his supporters in the Sandeshkhali area while probing a ration corruption case. That investigation later uncovered allegations of land grabbing and harassment of women, triggering widespread protests in February.
Shahjahan, who had remained absconding for nearly two months following the ED attack, was eventually arrested on February 29, 2024.