New Delhi: Following clashes between West Bengal residents in East Medinipur and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), tensions escalated as accusations flew from both sides. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the NIA for its tactics during recent raids, while the agency vehemently denied any wrongdoing, stating that it was the villagers who initiated the violence.
The NIA defended its actions as legitimate and essential to their investigation into a deadly bombing incident in Naruabila village, Purba Medinipur district, in December 2022. The incident claimed three lives and raised significant concerns. The agency claimed that an aggressive mob attacked their team during searches in relation to the Bhupathinagar blast case, hindering their efforts.
According to NIA, the violent confrontation was unprovoked and obstructed their lawful duties. The searches were conducted under tight security measures with the presence of independent witnesses and CRPF protection, including female constables. Subsequent arrests, including that of Manobrata Jana and Bailicharan Maity, were carried out following proper legal procedures after failure to comply with investigation summons.
The situation took a turn for the worse when NIA officials were assaulted by the crowd while taking an arrested individual to the local police station. This led to injuries and damage to NIA property, prompting the agency to file complaints seeking legal action against the perpetrators. The arrests were made on the grounds of serious allegations as determined by the Special NIA Court in Kolkata.
The court emphasized the necessity for a thorough and expedited investigation, granting NIA the authority to proceed with necessary actions to ensure justice. In compliance with the court’s orders, the arrests and searches were executed on Saturday, leading to the apprehension of the two accused individuals implicated in the explosive incident. The ongoing tensions between local residents and the NIA highlight the complexities involved in criminal investigations and the challenges faced in upholding the law amidst public scrutiny and unrest.