Posters demanding return of “cut money” appear outside TMC-linked brothers’ homes in Arambagh

Posters demanding the return of allegedly extorted “cut money” have appeared outside the homes of two brothers linked to the All India Trinamool Congress in Goghat of Arambagh, triggering political tension in the area. The posters target Shahabuddin Khan and Giasuddin Khan, both of whom previously held influential positions in local politics. Residents have accused the two leaders of corruption, extortion and illegal collection of money during the previous regime.

According to local allegations, the two brothers gained significant political influence in Goghat over the past decade and rapidly expanded their wealth during that period. Residents claimed that the family earlier lived in a mud house before constructing a three-storey residence. Shahabuddin Khan had previously served as president of the Goghat-II block TMC unit and also held a position in the local panchayat samiti, while Giasuddin Khan later became head of the Shyambazar panchayat in 2018.

Villagers alleged that the brothers and their associates created fear in the locality through intimidation and coercion. Several residents claimed local shopkeepers were pressured into providing vegetables and goods without payment, while those opposing the group allegedly faced threats, assault, vandalism and arson attacks. Some locals also accused members of the group of harassing women in the area.

Following the political change in West Bengal, several residents said they now feel confident enough to publicly raise allegations against the two leaders. The appearance of posters demanding the return of “cut money” in Shyambazar has intensified attention on the controversy and increased pressure on the accused leaders in the area.

BJP leaders also criticised the two brothers over the allegations. Goghat-II BJP mandal president Tamal Ghosh alleged that the leaders were involved in post-poll violence after the 2021 Assembly elections and had created fear in the region for years. He further claimed that even police personnel faced difficulties functioning in the locality. However, accused TMC leader Giasuddin Khan denied all allegations and claimed that attempts were being made to frame him politically.