The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday ordered a court-monitored CBI investigation into the Sandeshkhali case, wherein allegations of sexual atrocities on women and land grabs were levelled against local leaders of the ruling Trinamool Congress.
The court also directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to submit a report on the illegal conversion of agricultural land for pisciculture.
Earlier, the investigations into the attack on a team of the Enforcement Directorate were handed over to the CBI.
Giving out today's order, the court said, "Considering the complexity of the matters in Sandeshkhali, there is no doubt that an impartial investigation should be done. We are of the opinion that the state has to give proper support to whoever agency is given incharge for investigation."
"A portal/email ID is to be launched for receiving complaints. The District Magistrate should give adequate publicity mentioning the date of release of the same in vernacular," it said.
"The CBI shall file a comprehensive report and also enquire and investigate the grabbing of land. The agency will have the power to enquire anyone, including common people, government departments, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO)s, etc."
"The court will monitor the whole matter closely. CCTV cameras are to be installed on a priority basis within 15 days. LED street lights are also to be installed. Funds as required shall be given by the state," the court said.
It further listed the matter for hearing on May 2.
Sandeshkhali has been in the news post the attack on a team of Enforcement Directorate officers, while they had gone there to conduct a raid at the residence of suspended Trinamool leader Sheikh Shahjahan, in connection with the ration distribution scam in West Bengal.
Allegations of sexual atrocities on women and land grabs were levelled against local leaders of the ruling Trinamool Congress at Sandeshkhali in North 24 Parganas district recently.
Sheikh Shahjahan, a key accused in sexual assault and land grab charges in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, was arrested by the Bengal Police on February 29 in connection with an assault on Enforcement Directorate officials.
