TMC leader allegedly returns ₹80,000 to BJP worker in Gosaba after five years

A local Trinamool Congress leader in Gosaba allegedly returned ₹80,000 to a BJP worker five years after the money was reportedly collected through intimidation following the 2021 Assembly election. The incident, involving TMC booth president Paritosh Das from Palpur under the Sundarban Coastal Police Station area, has triggered political controversy after a video of the alleged repayment surfaced on social media.

According to allegations made by BJP worker Santosh Jana, he was threatened and attacked because of his political affiliation after the 2021 election. Jana claimed he was warned that his shop would be taken over and converted into a party office if he did not comply with demands made by local TMC leaders. He alleged that nearby houses were vandalised and several people in the locality faced harassment during that period.

Jana claimed he was forced to pay ₹80,000 in two installments to stop the alleged intimidation. According to him, ₹40,000 was transferred online, while the remaining ₹40,000 was paid in cash. He further alleged that the money had been collected in the name of building a party office in the area. Local residents also alleged that several people in the locality faced pressure and threats during that time.

According to local reports, after the political change in West Bengal in 2026, Paritosh Das allegedly visited Jana’s house late at night and returned the entire amount. The exchange was reportedly recorded on camera by Jana, and the footage later spread widely on social media. During the alleged conversation, the TMC leader was reportedly heard admitting that the money had been collected under instructions from former local TMC area president Paritosh Haldar.

The incident has triggered political reactions across the region, with BJP leaders claiming the repayment reflected fear of legal action and possible arrest under the new administration. Local residents described the incident as a reflection of alleged intimidation and extortion practices that existed in the area for years. The controversy has also intensified debate over allegations of political coercion and illegal collection of money during the previous regime.