Watch: Brother of key accused escaping on motorcycle after Sandeshkhali locals apprehend

New Delhi: Tensions flared in the Rampur locality of Sandeshkhali as angry villagers set fire to the residence of Shirajuddin, the brother of Trinamool Congress leader Shahjahan Sheikh. Shahjahan, facing accusations of sexual offenses by several women, remains elusive as his brother's home became the target of villagers' fury.

Escape on motorcycle

In a viral video capturing the chaos, Shirajuddin can be seen making a hasty escape on a motorcycle following the onslaught by villagers. The incident unfolded amidst ongoing protests by numerous women, alleging sexual misconduct perpetrated by Shahjahan Sheikh and his associates.

Breaking⚡️
Brother of Sheikh Shahjahan,Siraj was
Made run for his life by the people of Sandeshkhali also a property belonging to Siraj was also set on fire. Seems like Bengali Hindus of Sandeshkhali had enough from Tmc Goons and are now rising up against them.#Sandeshkhali pic.twitter.com/kB29zlXmmV

— Spitting Facts (@SoldierSaffron7) February 22, 2024

Allegations of land grab

Villagers claim that Shirajuddin, allegedly acting under his brother's influence, forcefully seized control of the area, displacing tribal inhabitants and grabbing their lands. This follows a pattern of coercion and exploitation orchestrated by Shahjahan and his associates, as recounted by local residents.

Torching of poultry farm

The attack on Shirajuddin's residence comes in the wake of villagers torching a poultry farm owned by Shibu Hazra, another close aide of Shahjahan Sheikh. Hazra, a Trinamool Congress leader, was apprehended following allegations of illegal occupation of land forcibly seized by Sheikh and his associates.

Grievances voiced to NCST

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) encountered the simmering discontent firsthand when villagers intercepted their convoy. More than 23 complaints were lodged with the NCST team during their visit to Sandeshkhali, highlighting coerced land acquisitions and instances of torture allegedly perpetrated by Shahjahan Sheikh and his cohorts.

NCST acting vice-chairperson Ananta Nayak affirmed the receipt of complaints, ensuring that the grievances voiced by Sandeshkhali residents, including the involvement of a political leader, will be duly addressed in their report.

The incident underscores the deep-seated resentment and unrest prevailing among villagers, who demand justice and accountability for the alleged atrocities committed in their community.