West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK : The businessman in Baranagar has alleged that he was abducted, assaulted and threatened with death after refusing to pay an extortion demand of one lakh rupees, sparking political controversy in the area. The complaint names local Trinamool Congress leader Shankar Raut as being involved in the incident, an accusation he has strongly denied. The alleged episode took place on Gopal Lal Thakur Road in Baranagar and has prompted a police investigation.

The complainant, Sudipta Ghosh, a resident of the area who works in interior design, claimed that he had been receiving repeated phone calls demanding one lakh rupees as extortion money. According to Ghosh, he refused to comply with the demand despite being threatened over the phone on multiple occasions. He alleged that on Friday night, several individuals arrived at his residence and intimidated him. He further claimed that he was forcibly taken from his home to a nearby club where he was physically assaulted.

Ghosh stated in his complaint that he was warned of severe consequences, including threats to his life, if he continued to refuse payment. He has alleged that local Trinamool Congress leader Shankar Raut was behind the entire episode. A video related to the alleged incident has surfaced on social media and has since gone viral, though its authenticity has not been independently verified.

On Saturday morning, Ghosh lodged a written complaint at the Baranagar police station, formally naming Shankar Raut among those he accuses of involvement. Police officials have confirmed that an investigation has been initiated based on the written complaint. Officers are reportedly examining the claims, reviewing available evidence and recording statements to determine the sequence of events.

Shankar Raut has categorically denied all allegations, stating that he has no connection with any extortion attempt or assault. He claimed that there was no incident of physical violence and insisted that the businessman had been called to a local club only for a discussion to resolve certain misunderstandings. Raut maintained that the matter is being politically exaggerated and misrepresented.

The controversy has quickly taken on a political dimension, with leaders from rival parties trading accusations. The Bharatiya Janata Party has sharply criticized the ruling All India Trinamool Congress over the allegations. BJP leader Sajal Ghosh alleged that the assault was carried out under the leadership of Shankar Raut and demanded strict action against those responsible. He warned that if the police fail to take prompt steps against the accused, the party would organize protests and consider gheraoing the local police station.

On the other hand, Trinamool leaders have dismissed the claims as politically motivated. Local representatives have asserted that there is no political angle to the dispute and have urged that the matter be left to the police investigation. They argue that attempts are being made to tarnish the party’s image by amplifying unverified allegations.

Residents of Baranagar have expressed concern over the incident, especially in light of the viral video and the escalating political rhetoric. The case has raised questions about extortion allegations and the safety of local business owners. Many are closely watching how the police handle the investigation and whether any arrests will follow.

The focus remains on the official probe. Authorities are expected to scrutinize phone records, examine the viral video and gather testimonies from witnesses. The outcome of the investigation will likely determine whether the allegations lead to legal action or are dismissed as part of a political confrontation. As tensions simmer in Baranagar, both sides appear prepared for a prolonged battle, with law enforcement under pressure to ensure transparency and impartiality in addressing the serious claims raised by the businessman.