New Delhi: The Supreme Court has upheld a decision for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to continue investigating charges against Shahjahan Sheikh and his associates in Sandeshkhali, despite a challenge from the West Bengal government on Monday. Shahjahan Sheikh, a local influential figure, was arrested by the CBI following a tense confrontation with Bengal police in February. The subsequent suspension of Sheikh from the Trinamool Congress party further underscored the seriousness of the allegations.SC upholds CBI investigation into Sheikhs alleged crimesThe Calcutta High Court had earlier directed the CBI to investigate 42 cases against Sheikh and his associates, including allegations ranging from sexual assault to a ration scam. This decision was contested by the West Bengal government in the Supreme Court, arguing that the scope of the investigation should be more limited. However, the Supreme Court upheld the High Courts decision, questioning why the state government was advocating for an individual accused of serious crimes.During the proceedings, the Supreme Court expressed skepticism towards the states motives in protecting Sheikh, despite arguments from the Bengal governments counsel, Abhishek Singhvi. Singhvi highlighted efforts made by the state in addressing the ration scam allegations, but the court remained unconvinced. Justice BR Gavai specifically criticized the states delay in taking action against Sheikh and reiterated the courts stance on impartial investigation.Supreme Court rejects West Bengal governments plea challenging Calcutta High Court order directing CBI investigation into allegations of land grabbing and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali pic.twitter.com/ByDOAJM35p— ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2024Political tensions The Sandeshkhali case has attracted significant attention due to its political implications in West Bengal, particularly in the lead-up to the Lok Sabha elections. The allegations against Sheikh and the subsequent investigations have been contentious, with opposition parties accusing the ruling Trinamool Congress of shielding Sheikh from scrutiny.The CBIs involvement in the case was also prompted by an incident where Sheikhs supporters allegedly attacked a team from the Enforcement Directorate during a raid. This incident resulted in injuries to several officers and further intensified scrutiny on Sheikhs activities.More about Sandeshkhali CaseSandeshkhali, a village in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, became a focal point of political controversy when local residents, predominantly women, protested against the Trinamool Congress leadership and its influential figure Sheikh Shahjahan. They alleged that Shahjahan and his associates had engaged in land-grabbing and sexual assault using coercive means.
