Mamata slams 'Vindictive Act' in Hemant Soren's arrest by BJP-backed agencies

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed strong disapproval of the arrest of former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), labeling it as a "vindictive act by BJP-backed central agencies."

“I strongly condemn the unjust arrest of Shri Hemant Soren, a powerful tribal leader. The vindictive act by BJP-backed central agencies reeks of a planned conspiracy to undermine a popularly elected government,” the Trinamool Congress chief said in a post on X."

He is a close friend of mine, and I vow to stand unwaveringly by his side, dedicated to protecting democracy in these trying times. The resilient people of Jharkhand will deliver a resounding response and emerge victorious in this crucial battle!” Banerjee added.

In response to the arrest, Soren had challenged it in the Supreme Court, which declined to intervene, advising him to approach the high court. The ED has accused Soren of being a key beneficiary in a sophisticated land scam operation, involving manipulation of records and acquisition of valuable land through fraudulent means.

The agency recovered over ₹36 lakh in cash from Soren, along with documents related to the ongoing investigation into the alleged acquisition of land by fraudulent means. Land parcels spanning 8.5 acres are said to be part of the criminal proceeds allegedly acquired by the former Chief Minister.