Kolkata, July 29 (IANS) Trinamool Congress leader Raju Naskar of Beliaghata in north Kolkata was arrested by the anti-rowdy wing of Kolkata Police in a late-night operation and booked on multiple charges, including extortion, assault, criminal intimidation and terrorising local residents, officials said on Wednesday.
According to police, at least six criminal cases have been registered against Raju Naskar across different police stations. Investigators said the allegations against him include assault, threats and extortion through abuse of local influence.
Police sources said Raju Naskar had earlier been arrested before the Assembly elections in connection with an assault case and charges of criminal intimidation. He was subsequently granted bail by a court. His latest arrest is linked to the investigation of pending cases against him.
His name had also surfaced after the state government initiated action against alleged illegal constructions in the Beliaghata area of Kolkata after it came to power in the state in May. Local residents had accused him of being associated with several such illegal constructions.
A few days ago, a section of locals attacked Raju’s associates, but Raju was not found.
After the arrest, Raju Naskar will be produced before the Sealdah court on Wednesday. The police may apply for his custody for interrogation.
A Kolkata Police officer said, “Raju Naskar was arrested before the West Bengal Assembly elections. Later, he got bail. This time, Raju Naskar has been arrested in connection with extortion and eviction of a family from their residential property.”
The Trinamool Congress has not yet issued a detailed response on the matter. Police said all complaints against Raju Naskar would be investigated and further action would be taken in accordance with the law. Investigators are also expected to probe whether others were involved in the alleged offences.
–IANS
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