Kolkata, 18 May (H.S.): Police of Asansol South Police Station on Monday arrested Raju Ahluwalia, the Asansol block president of Trinamool Congress-backed trade union INTTUC, on charges of extortion.

Raju was produced before the Asansol court later in the day. While entering the court premises, he claimed that the case against him was part of a “political conspiracy.”

According to local sources and Trinamool Congress workers, the arrested leader is considered close to former West Bengal minister Moloy Ghatak.

Police officials said that a few days ago, three persons were arrested from the Mahishila Colony area of Asansol in connection with an extortion case. During interrogation in custody, the accused allegedly revealed that they were collecting money on behalf of Raju Ahluwalia and handing over the extorted amount to him.

Based on those statements, police initiated action and arrested Raju.

Investigators said they would now question him in custody to determine who else might be involved in the extortion racket and whether the collected money was being passed on to any other individuals.

Speaking to reporters while being taken to court, Raju denied the allegations and said, “I have always protested against extortion. Today I have been arrested. This is a political conspiracy.” When asked who could be behind the alleged conspiracy, he said, “Everyone knows the situation in Asansol. This has been done to stop me from protesting.”

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh