Hooghly, 9 November (H.S.): Amidst the ongoing SIR process in West Bengal, a shocking incident has come to light from Konnagar in Hooghly district. Allegedly, a YouTuber threatened a timber merchant and his employee, saying that if they didn't pay, their names would be removed from the voter list and they would be deported to Bangladesh.

Following this threat, the alleged YouTuber demanded ₹40,000 from the merchant and accepted ₹15,000. Later, fearing police action the accused returned the money.

The incident took place in Rishra area of Hooghly district, where a timber merchant had hired a young man two years ago. Allegedly, the YouTuber blackmailed the merchant by claiming that the employee was a Bangladeshi and demanded money.

According to sources, the merchant went to the Kanaipur police station to lodge a complaint after being duped. However, the police said no formal complaint has been filed yet.

The businessman denied the allegations, saying, No Bangladeshi youth worked for me. He said he lived in Barasat. Now he's missing. I've informed the police, and the investigation is ongoing.

A local Trinamool leader condemned the entire incident, saying, Now anyone with a mobile phone can pose as a journalist or YouTuber. They're extorting money by intimidating and threatening people. The administration should take strict action against such people.

Tension prevails in the area following the incident.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey