Lagatar24 Desk
Kolkata: An All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen leader, Mofakkerul Islam, has been arrested for allegedly masterminding protests in Malda that led to the hostage-taking of seven judicial officers. The arrest was made at Bagdogra Airport as he was reportedly attempting to flee the state.
Hostage Crisis Triggered by Voter List Dispute
The incident occurred during protests linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise conducted by the Election Commission of India ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections. The revision process reportedly led to over 63 lakh voter deletions, with another 60 lakh placed under review.
Protesters gathered outside the Kaliachak II Block Development Office and later confined seven judicial officers, including three women, inside the premises for over nine hours. A child was also present during the incident. The officers were eventually rescued late at night after police intervention, amid stone-pelting and chaos.
Arrests and Central Agencies Take Over Investigation
So far, 18 individuals have been arrested, with further raids underway. The probe has now been handed over to central agencies, including the National Investigation Agency, which has begun overseeing the investigation. Senior officials are closely monitoring the developments as the case unfolds.
Supreme Court Slams State Over ‘Serious Failure’
The Supreme Court of India strongly criticised the handling of the situation, terming it a “criminal failure.” A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant questioned the state administration’s response and ordered deployment of central forces for the protection of judicial officers.
The court also directed senior officials, including the chief secretary, DGP, and district magistrate, to appear and explain the lapses, while emphasizing the need for accountability and strict adherence to law.
