A woman contractor alleges death threats and assault by a sand mafia in Golaghati after opposing illegal sand mining. She seeks Chief Minister’s intervention, raising serious concerns over safety, environmental damage, and alleged misuse of influence.
A woman contractor has alleged that she is facing grave threats to her life from an alleged sand mafia operating in the Golaghati area, raising serious concerns about illegal sand mining, law enforcement response, and the safety of whistle-blowers. The contractor has appealed directly to the Chief Minister, demanding immediate intervention and strict action against those responsible.
The contractor, identified as Saraswati Lodh, alleged that she received a chilling threat through a WhatsApp voice message late Wednesday night. According to her, the message warned that “even the Chief Minister would not be able to save her,” indicating the level of intimidation she is allegedly facing. Lodh described the threat as a clear attempt to silence her after she raised objections against illegal sand extraction activities.
Lodh further alleged that she was brutally assaulted a few days ago at her work site along the Vijay River in the Golaghati area. She claimed that the attack was severe and that she narrowly escaped with her life. The contractor stated that she was targeted after protesting against unauthorized sand mining, which she claims has caused significant damage to the river ecosystem, including the destruction of boulders and natural barriers.
According to Lodh, the alleged main accused, Sukanta Ghosh, began targeting her after she reported the illegal sand extraction to the Forest Department. Based on her complaint, authorities reportedly initiated action against Ghosh. However, she claims that the action intensified hostility against her instead of ensuring her safety.
Lodh also alleged that an associate of the accused recorded a video at her work site and circulated it on social media, questioning the quality and standards of her work. She believes the video was intended to defame her and weaken her credibility after she spoke out against illegal activities.
A case has been registered at Takarjala Police Station against three individuals in connection with the attack on the woman contractor. However, Lodh and local observers have raised questions regarding the pace and seriousness of the police investigation. She alleged that there has been an unexplained delay in taking decisive action against the accused.
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Adding another dimension to the controversy, Lodh claimed that Sukanta Ghosh is the younger brother of the president of the Bishalgarh Press Club. She alleged that this connection is being misused to exert pressure on the police and evade strict legal action.
Speaking to the media at her residence on Thursday, Lodh made an emotional appeal for justice. “I want proper justice. Those who attacked me must be punished immediately,” she said, urging the administration to ensure her safety and uphold the rule of law.
The incident has once again highlighted growing concerns over illegal sand mining and the risks faced by individuals who challenge powerful networks involved in such activities.
