West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Bankura, West Bengal, May 21 — The Lalbazar Bypass area of Bankura town on Thursday after local residents staged a massive protest alleging that an illegal prostitution racket had been operating inside a residential house with the alleged support and protection of local leaders of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).

Thursday morning, angry residents, including a large number of women, gathered in front of the accused house carrying sticks and bamboo poles, demanding immediate police action against those involved in the alleged immoral activities. The protest quickly escalated, creating a tense atmosphere across the locality and drawing widespread public attention.

The house located near the Lalbazar Bypass had witnessed unusually frequent movement of outsiders, including young men and women, over the past several weeks. Suspicious of the activities taking place inside the building, locals reportedly began making inquiries and eventually came to believe that an illegal sex trade was being conducted from the premises.

Residents further alleged that the operation continued openly because it enjoyed direct political patronage from several influential local TMC leaders. They claimed that earlier attempts to object to the activities and protect the social environment of the neighbourhood were allegedly suppressed through political influence and intimidation.

Public anger intensified, residents finally decided to launch a direct protest on Thursday. Protesters surrounded the house and demanded strict punishment not only for those allegedly running the racket but also for the political figures accused of supporting the operation.

Police from Bankura Sadar Police Station rushed to the spot to control the situation and prevent any violence. Protesters submitted their demands to the police, urging authorities to identify the masterminds behind the alleged prostitution racket and take strong legal action against everyone involved, irrespective of political affiliation.

Police officials assured the demonstrators that a proper investigation would be conducted and legal action taken based on evidence. Following the assurance, the situation gradually came under control, though tension remained high in the area.

So far, no official statement has been issued by the local Trinamool Congress leadership regarding the allegations. Meanwhile, police have reportedly started an investigation into the incident and are questioning the house owner as well as several suspected individuals connected to the alleged illegal activities.

The incident has sparked fresh political controversy in West Bengal, with opposition voices likely to target the ruling party over allegations of political protection for criminal and anti-social activities.