TMC leaders accused of arson in Birbhum amid allegations of land grabbing and intimidation

In Nahdahari village of Birbhum district, local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leaders are facing serious allegations of arson, following the burning of a family home amid claims of ongoing land disputes. The incident reportedly occurred on the night of Monday, October 28, 2024, when a significant fire engulfed the residence of the Khatun family. Eyewitnesses assert that the blaze consumed not only the structure but also all belongings within, including furniture, cash, and jewelry, resulting in substantial losses for the family.

The family has publicly accused TMC leader Babu Ansari and his associates of orchestrating the attack. In response, Ansari vehemently denied the allegations, suggesting that the situation may stem from the activities of land mafias who are trying to exert control over local properties. He expressed confusion over why he is being targeted and stated that he has no connection to the alleged arson. The escalating tensions in the area, particularly surrounding land ownership and disputes, have raised alarms among local residents about safety and security.

Reports indicate that a group of approximately 20 to 25 armed individuals descended upon the Khatun home, where only women were present at the time. The intruders allegedly brandished firearms, intimidating the women and forcing them to flee the property. Once the women evacuated, the assailants reportedly set the house on fire. The fire department and police arrived shortly after the incident was reported, but the rapid spread of the flames resulted in severe damage before they could contain it.

Asma Khatun, a member of the affected family, disclosed that their household has been subjected to persistent harassment related to a parcel of land adjacent to their home. She revealed that her father has been living away from home due to threats, and her brother has been unable to return because of the danger posed by the alleged perpetrators. Asma also claimed that her uncle had been wrongfully imprisoned as part of a larger scheme to intimidate their family into relinquishing their land. Meanwhile, police investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire, including examining the possibility of a short circuit from an overhead electric pole.