West Bengal: Governor meets injured ED officials who were attacked on duty at hospital
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], January 6 – West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose paid a visit to the Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials who were attacked while on duty at a hospital in Kolkata on Friday.
The incident took place in Sandeshkhali village of North 24 Parganas in West Bengal on Thursday when the ED officials were conducting a raid related to an alleged ration scam case. They were attacked and their vehicles were damaged by individuals linked to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) party at the residence of block-level leaders. The injured officials were subsequently admitted to a hospital in Kolkata.
The Governor expressed his concern over the attack on the ED team in North 24 Parganas district, stating, It is a ghastly incident. It is alarming and deplorable. It is the duty of a civilised government to stop barbarism and vandalism in a democracy.
Governor Bose also summoned the Home Secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP) to discuss the incident further. He emphasized the need for the government to take action against pre-election violence.
The raid conducted by the ED was focused on the residences of former Bongaon Municipality Chairman Shankar Adhya and TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan in connection with the alleged ration scam case.
A member of the ED team present during the incident said, Eight people came to the spot. We three moved from the incident spot … they attacked us.
On the other hand, TMC MP Santanu Sen claimed that the officials from the federal agency had provoked the locals, leading to a counter-reaction. He stated, The officers of the Central investigation agency surrounded by the Central forces provoked the local people. That’s why there were counter reactions continuously.
The attack on the ED officials has raised concerns about the safety of law enforcement personnel and the role of political affiliations in such incidents. The Governor’s visit to the injured officials reflects the seriousness of the matter and the need for appropriate action.
It is crucial for the government to address the issue of violence and ensure the safety of those involved in conducting investigations. Upholding the principles of democracy and protecting the rule of law is essential for a peaceful and functioning society.
The investigation into the alleged ration scam case and the incidents surrounding it will likely continue with heightened attention from both the state and central authorities. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to maintain transparency and accountability to restore public trust.
The attack on the ED officials serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in carrying out their duties. It highlights the importance of safeguarding the integrity of investigations and protecting those who work diligently to uphold justice.
As the state and central authorities work together to address the situation, it is hoped that appropriate measures will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future and ensure the safety of enforcement officials.
