India News : In a major development in the Malda incident in West Bengal, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has arrested the alleged mastermind Mofakkarul Islam. He was taken into custody from Bagdogra Airport while reportedly attempting to flee, marking a significant breakthrough in the high-profile case.
The incident had sparked widespread concern after judicial officers engaged in a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process were allegedly surrounded and held hostage by a group of people. The process was being conducted under the directives of the Supreme Court of India, making the situation even more serious.
According to North Bengal ADG Jayraman, Mofakkarul Islam has been arrested on charges of inciting people. He stated that authorities are investigating whether the incident was pre-planned and assured that such actions would not be tolerated under any circumstances. Following the incident, judicial officials have been provided security by central armed police forces (CAPF).
Police have so far arrested around 35 individuals in connection with the case, and further investigations are ongoing to identify others involved. Officials are working to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy behind the incident.
Meanwhile, the Election Commission of India has handed over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), following directions from the Supreme Court. Sources indicate that an NIA team is expected to reach West Bengal soon to begin its probe.
The Election Commission has emphasized that any form of violence or disruption during the electoral process will not be tolerated. In a formal communication, Election Commission Secretary Sujit Kumar Mishra informed the NIA Director General about the decision, citing the Supreme Court’s directive to involve either the NIA or the CBI in the investigation.
The apex court took suo motu cognizance of the incident based on information received from the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court. The episode reportedly occurred at a Block Development Office (BDO) headquarters around 3:30 PM on Wednesday, where seven judicial officers were conducting hearings related to claims and objections under the SIR process.
The Supreme Court has termed the incident as a matter of contempt and has scheduled the next hearing for April 6. Authorities are now intensifying efforts to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents in the future.
