Prohibitory orders clamped in WB's Sandeshkhali as villagers protest seeking TMC leader's arrest

The protesting women alleged that Sheikh Shajahan and his "gang" captured swathes of land by force, besides sexually harassing them.

Women protesting in Sandeshkhali. Image used for representational purpose. (Photo | PTI)

KOLKATA: Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC were imposed and internet services were suspended in Sandeshkhali in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district, where local women held protests demanding the arrest of absconding TMC leader Sheikh Shajahan and his aides, police said on Saturday.

With sticks and brooms in their hands, local women took out processions in different areas of Sandeshkhali as the protest intensified on the second day on Friday.

"Section 144 of CrPC has been imposed and internet services have been suspended in parts of North 24 Parganas district," a senior police officer said.

NCW is deeply disturbed by reports alleging the wrongful confinement and rape of Hindu women in Basirhat, West Bengal by Sheikh Shahjahan at the TMC party office. We condemn these incidents and urge swift action. A letter has been sent to the state DGP for immediate intervention…

— NCW (@NCWIndia) February 10, 2024

Shajahan has been absconding since last month after a team of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) that went to raid his house in an alleged ration scam was attacked by a mob.

The protesting women alleged that Shajahan and his "gang" captured swathes of land by force, besides sexually harassing them.

Meanwhile, Shajahan's supporters also took to the streets, further adding to the tension.