In a significant development concerning the ongoing Sandeshkhali case, the Calcutta High Court has ordered the inclusion of Shahjahan Sheikh, a prominent Trinamool Congress (TMC) figure and the primary accused in allegations of sexual assault and land grabbing, as a respondent in a suo-motu case initiated by the court. The court clarified that there is no stay order preventing the Bengal Police from arresting Sheikh.

Additional Solicitor General Asok Kumar Chakrabarti sought clarification from the court regarding any stay on Sheikh’s arrest, to which the Chief Justice asserted, “There is no stay order in Sandeshkhali cases. We clarify that there is no stay on his arrest.” Emphasizing the imperative for Sheikh’s apprehension, the Chief Justice stated, “A stay on investigation doesn’t mean a stay on arrest. There is an FIR registered and he has been branded as an accused. Bengal Police has to arrest him.”

In response to these developments, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose hailed the court’s decision, labeling it as “momentous.” Governor Bose underscored the necessity of Sheikh’s immediate arrest, emphasizing the importance of respecting the judicial process in a democracy.

The high court has instructed the registry department to issue a public notice regarding Sheikh’s inclusion in the case, as he remains untraceable.

Furthermore, the police have lodged a fresh FIR against Sheikh based on over 70 complaints received, with most complainants alleging his involvement in the forcible acquisition of land and the mistreatment of local women. The escalating tensions have led to protests in Sandeshkhali, where enraged villagers vandalized the residences of local TMC leaders, including Shankar Sardar.

Basirhat SP HM Rehman confirmed the filing of complaints against Sheikh and assured appropriate action, stating, “We have filed an FIR against Sheikh Shahjahan.”

Amidst the unrest, law enforcement authorities have cautioned against vigilantism, urging residents not to take the law into their own hands. The Basirhat SP reiterated the commitment to maintaining order and warned of legal consequences for those resorting to violence.

The situation in Sandeshkhali remains tense as authorities grapple with the aftermath of the allegations and the pursuit of justice in the case involving Sheikh and other accused individuals.