Agency Expands Inquiry Into Judicial Hostage Incident
Key Points:
- NIA Questions 40 BLOs in Malda Violence Case
- Judicial Officials Held Hostage During Protest
- Probe Suggests Possible Organized Conspiracy
KOLKATA – The NIA has intensified its probe into Malda violence where judicial officials were allegedly held hostage during protests.
The National Investigation Agency has accelerated its inquiry in Malda district. The case involves alleged detention of judicial officers during protests.
Meanwhile, around 40 booth-level officers have been summoned for questioning. Of them, 22 were interrogated on Sunday at the temporary office.
However, the agency revisited the Mothabari BDO office for further inspection. Officials examined the site to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Moreover, authorities alleged that judicial officers were surrounded for several hours. Investigators are now verifying these claims through field assessments.
Meanwhile, the district magistrate issued a show-cause notice to an officer. The notice cited failure in reporting ground realities on April 1.
On the other hand, the probe has been divided into three segments. Teams are examining the BDO office, crime scene, and police station.
Furthermore, CCTV footage from Englishbazar police station was reviewed. Witnesses were also questioned to gather additional evidence.
Meanwhile, investigators are trying to identify how the crowd gathered. They are also examining leadership roles behind the incident.
Moreover, the main accused, Mofakkarul Islam, has been arrested. Officials suspect a coordinated plan behind the violence.
However, the agency is preparing to submit its preliminary findings soon. The report is expected to be presented before a court.
Meanwhile, a separate FIR has been registered against a woman BLO. She allegedly protested outside the CEO office in Kolkata.
Furthermore, the accused, Tanushree Modak Bhattacharya, has received a notice. She must appear at Hare Street police station within three days.
On the other hand, the notice outlined strict compliance instructions. It warned against destroying evidence or obstructing the investigation.
Moreover, police stated that non-compliance could lead to arrest. She has also been asked to submit required documents.
Meanwhile, this marks the first FIR against a female BLO. The action follows protests over workload concerns by BLO associations.
Furthermore, the BLO Rights Protection Committee had earlier staged demonstrations. They claimed excessive workload led to distress among members.
On the other hand, a previous protest on February 24 saw political tensions. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari had visited the CEO office.
Meanwhile, BJP supporters gathered and raised slogans at the site. The situation reportedly escalated into unrest outside the premises.
Moreover, Tanushree later filed a complaint against BJP supporters. However, police have now filed a case against her under commission orders.
