Kolkata, 05 August (H.S.) : Tulu Mondal, the controversial Birbhum strongman popularly known as the Stone King, on Wednesday approached the Calcutta High Court seeking legal protection in connection with a recent criminal case registered against him.

The matter was mentioned before the Bench of Justice Sougata Bhattacharyya by Mondal's counsel, following which the court granted permission to file the petition. The case is likely to be taken up for hearing later this week.

The development comes days after Birbhum Police conducted a raid at the residence of Minar Mondal, a relative of Tulu Mondal, in Deucha village under Mohammad Bazar police station and recovered approximately ₹28.5 crore in cash and 15 kilograms of gold. Tulu Mondal, however, was not found during the operation.

Following the recovery, Birbhum Police registered a case suo motu, naming Tulu Mondal as the prime accused. Police sources said he is also facing several other criminal cases, including a murder case.

According to preliminary information, Mondal's plea before the High Court is related to the FIR registered in connection with the recent recovery of cash and gold. Through the petition, he has sought legal protection in the matter.

The High Court is expected to hear the case later this week.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh