Kolkata, 4 July (H.S.) -

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) has begun formulating a dual-pronged strategy — both legal and political — to counter the recent supplementary chargesheet filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the 2021 West Bengal post-poll violence cases. The chargesheet names Beliaghata MLA Paresh Pal and two Kolkata Municipal Corporation councillors: Swapan Samaddar (Ward 58), who is also a member of the Mayor-in-Council, and Papiya Ghosh (Ward 30).

The CBI’s filing has triggered swift internal deliberations within the TMC. According to a senior member of the state cabinet, the three accused leaders contacted the party’s top leadership immediately after their names were revealed. Our legal team is evaluating the grounds on which this case can be challenged in the Special Court in Kolkata, the minister said. At the same time, we are preparing to politically communicate that these developments are motivated by a spirit of vendetta.

Sources within the party indicate that the first legal step could be filing petitions in the Special Court, seeking the removal of their names from the list of accused. Party legal advisors are currently assessing the viability of such action, and petitions will be filed once the leadership grants approval.

On the political front, the TMC is questioning the timing of the chargesheet, which comes just months ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Why have the names of Paresh Pal, Swapan Samaddar, and Papiya Ghosh been added now, after three years? This is a clear attempt to create pressure ahead of the elections, the cabinet member said.

Highlighting the condition of Paresh Pal, the leader added, He is over 70 and suffering from multiple serious ailments. He has not been attending the Assembly sessions. Including his name in the chargesheet appears to be a deliberate move to intimidate senior leaders.

Councillor Swapan Samaddar confirmed that he would act in accordance with the guidance of party leadership and legal counsel regarding any further steps in the case.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh