Hooghly, 20 August (H.S.): West Bengal Minister of State Bhaskar Bhattacharya on Thursday launched a sharp attack on the previous Trinamool Congress government over the arrest of alleged ISI suspect Jafar Shams alias Shani from Rishra, saying that the police are now able to function independently and efficiently without political pressure.

Speaking to reporters, Bhattacharya said it was a matter that needed serious consideration as to why suspected criminals and individuals allegedly linked to such activities were being arrested from the Serampore Assembly constituency and surrounding areas. He said the authorities needed to get to the bottom of the matter and conduct a thorough investigation.

Taking a dig at the previous Trinamool Congress government, the minister said, “The Trinamool Congress government had tied the hands of the police and made them wear bangles.” He claimed that under the present government, the police have the freedom to work without pressure and are therefore able to take action with greater efficiency.

Bhattacharya further said that the recent series of arrests involving Pakistani nationals and suspects allegedly linked to an ISI network demonstrated that the police and security agencies were actively performing their duties. He stressed that there should be no compromise when it comes to matters concerning national security.

The arrest of Jafar Shams alias Shani from Rishra has sparked discussions in the area over security and alleged intelligence-related activities. The minister indicated that the investigation should not stop at the arrest and that authorities should also examine the wider network and possible links associated with the case.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey