BJP shelters Murshidabad victims' kin in Salt Lake; Police probe "Kidnapping" claim

A tense situation unfolded in Salt Lake on Sunday as the Bengal BJP provided shelter to the bereaved families of Hargobind Das and Chandan Das, who were recently murdered in Murshidabad's Waqf violence. The move prompted a visit from both Murshidabad and Bidhannagar police forces, acting on a sensitive complaint lodged by relatives.

Police officials stated that their intervention came after receiving a formal complaint from relatives of the family members, alleging "kidnapping." Based on this complaint, the Investigating Officer (IO) handling the original Murshidabad case travelled to Salt Lake, accompanied by local Bidhannagar police personnel, and arrived at the house where the families were initially staying (BG 56).

Representing the BJP's stance, party leader Sajal Ghosh asserted that their actions were undertaken on the direct instructions of the Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari. Ghosh claimed the party had stepped forward solely to support and stand by the grieving families during their time of need, framing the initiative as humanitarian assistance.

Following the police visit or amidst the developing situation, Sajal Ghosh, along with other BJP workers, facilitated the relocation of the families. They were moved from the initial address at BG 56 in Salt Lake to another residence within Salt Lake, identified as BB 164.

According to sources within the BJP, the house at BB 164 in Salt Lake is reportedly owned by the Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari himself. While Adhikari may not reside there permanently, the property is currently occupied by his security personnel. This house is now the temporary residence for the family members of Hargobind Das.