PDS scam: ED raids absconding TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan's residence in West Bengal
Times of India | 24 January 2024
NEW DELHI: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted raids at Trinamool Congress leader Sheikh Shahjahan's residence in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali in connection with the alleged Public Distribution System (PDS) scam case. Shahjahan is currently absconding.
The ED officials were accompanied by central forces during the operation. Earlier this month, ED officials were attacked while on their way to carry out raids at Sheikh Shahjahan and fellow TMC leader Shankar Adhya's residences in the North 24 Parganas district.
Over 200 locals, believed to be supporters of the TMC leader, encircled the officials and armed paramilitary forces, preventing them from raiding Shahjahan's residence. Two ED officials were injured in the incident.
The BJP criticized the Mamata Banerjee government for the lack of law and order in the state, while the TMC claimed that the locals were provoked by the central agency. The governor has summoned the state home secretary and DGP to Raj Bhaban and demanded the immediate arrest of the absconding TMC leader.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has also sought a detailed report from the West Bengal government regarding the attacks. The raids are part of an investigation into the alleged ration scam in the state, with former food and civil supplies minister Jyotipriya Mullick already in custody.Explore Your Financial Landscape with Personalized Credit Insights.