Dum Dum businessman assaulted for not paying ₹50,000 festival donation; family also attacked

In Dum Dum, businessman Saumen Barman was brutally assaulted for refusing to pay a ₹50,000 donation requested by a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) worker for an upcoming festival. The alleged assailant, Sourav Aich, commonly known as Babulal, also demanded 100 cases of water from Saumen's water supply business. Despite Saumen's efforts to meet these demands within his means, Babulal was reportedly unsatisfied, leading to a violent confrontation.

The situation escalated on October 13, when Babulal confronted Saumen at his home. According to Saumen, when he stepped outside to address the demand, Babulal attacked him on the street, striking him repeatedly. In a desperate attempt to protect her husband, Saumen's wife, along with their special needs child, rushed out to intervene. Unfortunately, they too fell victim to the violence. Saumen's wife alleged that while trying to defend her family, she was sexually harassed during the altercation, and her clothing was torn in the process. Saumen expressed deep concern for their daughter, who is both mute and hearing impaired, stating that even she was not spared from the aggression.

Following the incident, Saumen and his family filed a formal complaint at the Dum Dum police station on October 15. However, they claim that no action has been taken against Babulal, leading to frustration and fear for their safety. The family suspects that Babulal's close ties to local TMC councilor Abhijit Mitra, known as Bapi Mitra, may be influencing the police's lack of response. Despite facing continuous threats and intimidation, Saumen is determined to seek justice.

Community members have rallied in support of Saumen and his family, voicing their outrage over the incident and calling for greater accountability from local authorities. They demand immediate action to address the escalating violence and extortion tactics that have become a concern during local festivals.