TMC worker allegedly attempts illegal occupation of govt land in Malda; BJP leader threatened

In the Gurguri area of Harishchandrapur, Malda, where Khoka Oraon, a worker affiliated with the Trinamool Congress, faces serious allegations regarding the illegal occupation of government land. This khas land, spanning over three bighas, has reportedly been the target of land mafias for an extended period, raising concerns among local residents about the security and ownership of this vacant area. Community members assert that they have been vigilant against such encroachments due to the land's significance.

Allegations have emerged that Khoka Oraon demanded five lakh rupees from Aditya Mishra, a local Trinamool leader and former land officer of the Harishchandrapur Panchayat Samiti, in exchange for facilitating the land occupation. Witnesses reported that Oraon, accompanied by a group, approached the site with the intent to assert control over the land. This incident has drawn attention to ongoing conflicts between local tribal communities and land mafias, which have a history of targeting this specific area.

The situation intensified when Harital Oraon, a BJP worker and husband of a Panchayat BJP member, intervened in an effort to prevent the land grab. Reports indicate that he received threats of abduction during this confrontation. Video footage has surfaced, showing Khoka Oraon making threats against the intervening leaders, which has further heightened the sense of urgency and conflict in the community. Tribal unit members have voiced strong objections to the attempted land occupation, emphasizing their commitment to protecting their rights.

In light of these developments, both the Harishchandrapur police and the Land and Land Reforms Department have commenced investigations into the allegations. Aditya Mishra has expressed concerns about Khoka Oraon's influence, alleging that he is involved in illegal land dealings despite being a member of the Trinamool Congress. Conversely, Khoka Oraon has claimed that Mishra and BJP worker Haridas sought financial assistance from him to secure the land occupation.