ED issues fourth summons to TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh in Bengal ration scam case

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has escalated its pursuit of absconding TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh in connection with the Bengal ration distribution scam. ED has issued the fourth summons, calling for Sheikh's appearance at the CGO Complex in Kolkata on February 29 at 11.30 am. The case involves alleged corruption of around Rs 10 thousand crore in the ration distribution system of West Bengal.

The summons follows the ED's initial arrest of former Bengal minister Jyotipriya Mallik, with Sheikh and former chairman of Bangaon Municipality Shankar Adya subsequently coming under scrutiny. During an attempted raid on Sheikh's residence on January 5, locals attacked ED officials, resulting in injuries to three officers and the vandalism of vehicles. This incident prompted the registration of three FIRs, with the Calcutta High Court intervening to stay police investigations against ED officials until March 31.

Shahjahan Sheikh's connection to Jyotipriya Malik, the former Food Minister, is notable, with both Sheikh and former TMC Bongaon Municipality President Shankar Adya considered close associates of Malik. Adya was arrested earlier in connection with the ration scam. The aftermath of the January 5 attack led to the arrest of Adya and legal intervention by the Calcutta High Court.

The court stayed police investigations against ED officials, who reported injuries, looted mobile phones, and vandalism during the incident. The unfolding developments highlight the complexity and controversies surrounding the alleged corruption in the Bengal ration distribution system.