In a shocking turn of events, Manik Lal Das, popularly known as “Kalo Manik,” and the vice president of the BJP’s Belonia unit SC Morcha, was arrested on Tuesday night for his alleged involvement in a violent attack on another party worker, Joydeb Saha, and his family.
The incident unfolded when a heated altercation occurred between Manik Lal Das and Joydeb Saha, both prominent local BJP leaders. Later that night, Das, accompanied by another individual identified as Chandan Das, and a group of 8 to 10 people, reportedly stormed into Saha’s residence located in Madhyapara.
According to the police First Information Report (FIR) filed by Joydeb Saha, the assailants not only forcefully entered his home but also assaulted him and his family members, including women. Saha’s mother was among those targeted during the attack.
Manik Lal Das, who had previously been expelled from the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPM] for his activities, later joined the BJP and rose through the ranks, allegedly due to his proximity to top party leaders. However, Das has remained a controversial figure, with numerous allegations of extortion, physical assaults, and involvement in other anti-social activities.
After the FIR was lodged, the police swiftly apprehended Manik Lal Das, and he was produced before the court. The court subsequently granted a two-day police remand for further investigation.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local political landscape, raising questions about the selection and vetting processes within political parties. The BJP’s Belonia unit now faces scrutiny as concerns are raised about its association with controversial figures like Das, despite multiple allegations against him.
As the investigation progresses, the spotlight remains on Manik Lal Das, whose arrest has sparked debates regarding the need for stringent measures to address the rising instances of violence and misconduct within the political sphere.
