Malda violence: Arrest a bid to shield mastermind from NIA, says BJP

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar cast doubt on the arrest of Malda violence mastermind Mofakkirul Islam, alleging it's a TMC ploy to shield him from an NIA probe. He cited alleged TMC links and the accused's online activity from custody.

Minister Alleges Ploy to Shield Accused

Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar on Friday cast serious doubts over the timing and intent behind the arrest of alleged Malda violence mastermind Mofakkirul Islam, claiming it was a move to shield him from a National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe.

Addressing reporters, Majumdar said,"The NIA investigation is going on as per the instructions of our Election Commission and Chief Election Commissioner. Before that, the CID arrested him (Mofakkirul Islam). I have some doubts about this. Whether the arrest was made to actually arrest him or to save him, will be known after the investigation. Whether anyone else is involved or not, Trinamool Congress is definitely there. We have shown you all the photos of this Mofakkirul with the Trinamool Congress, its leaders, and Mamata Banerjee. It shows how this man is or was associated with the TMC.

He further alleged that by reviving old connections and blaming the BJP, Mamata Banerjee aims to consolidate Muslim votes. "By reviving old connections and blaming the BJP, Mamata Banerjee's plan is to consolidate Muslim votes in this way. Mofakkirul, even after being arrested, is giving messages online on Facebook. Look, if someone goes live on Facebook while in CID custody, it supports my allegation that Mofakkirul was arrested or made to be arrested by the CID so that he could live a comfortable life. Otherwise, if the NIA catches him, the NIA's 'tea' is a bit bitter. Therefore, to save him, 'Didi' (Mamata Banerjee) has taken him with love," Majumdar added.

Police Confirm Arrest, Vow Action

Earlier today, ADG North Bengal K Jayaraman said 35 people have been arrested till now in the Malda hostage incident. "We detained Mofakkarul Islam from Bagdogra airport, for instigating people. He was going to his residence in Ithar. We will not allow any such kind of activity. Will definitely probe if this was pre-planned or not. After this incident, we have given CAPF to judicial officers. So far, 35 people have been arrested," ADG said.

Jayaraman reiterated that all the crucial steps will be taken by the police so that there is no further violence. "We will take all steps to ensure violence is not repeated. People can protest, but we will not allow any violence. That's for sure," he said.

He added that the officials are making an investigation into why there was a delay in the rescue, and a report will be submitted soon.

This comes after seven judicial officers, including three women, were held hostage by villagers in Malda district on April 1.

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