The Enforcement Directorate (ED) counsel informed a lower court on Friday that Sheikh Shahjahan, the absconding Trinamool Congress leader and the accused mastermind behind the attack on ED and CAPF personnel at Sandeshkhali on January 5, might escape to London if he is granted anticipatory bail.
The ED counsel argued that Shahjahan is so influential that on the day of the attack, he had arranged a crowd of around 3,000 people in just 15 minutes to launch the attack on the ED and CAPF personnel in Sandeshkhali.
“Later, we learnt from the tower location of his mobile phone that he was at his residence in front of which the attack took place, which shows how influential he is in the area,” the ED counsel argued.
In his counter argument, Shahjahan’s counsel termed the submission made by the central agency counsel as self-contradictory.
“On one hand, they are claiming that my client organised the crowd for the attack on that day. However, the same local crowd is now on the streets of Sandeshkhali demanding his arrest. How can this be possible,” Shahjahan’s counsel asked.
In reply, the ED counsel argued that if Shahjahan is innocent, why is he absconding since the day of the attack?
Shahjahan’s counsel then said that his client is ready to extend full cooperation to the investigation process, provided he gets a shield against coercive action.
The judge then reserved the judgement in the matter.
PM Modi holds talks with Elon Musk on closer India-US ties in technology, innovation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a discussion with Tesla CEO Elon Musk on a range of topics, including the immense potential for collaboration in the areas of technology and innovation.
Nine women among 22 Maoists surrender in Chhattisgarh's Sukma
Security forces in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh have achieved a significant breakthrough with 22 Maoists, including nine women, surrendering on Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to combat Maoism, officials said.
Focus on protecting rights of own minorities: India slams B'desh on Bengal violence comment
The comments from Dhaka came in the wake of protests against the Waqf(Amendment) Act, during which Bangladesh urged Indian authorities to ensure the safety of the minority Muslim population in the state.
Guru Tegh Bahadur's sacrifice inspires society to protect their faith for eternity: HM Shah on Prakash Parv
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday paid tribute to Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh guru, on his birth anniversary and emphasised the enduring legacy of his teachings and sacrifices.
May the spirit of peace and togetherness always prevail: PM Modi on Good Friday
On Good Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and urged people to embrace kindness and compassion, praying that the spirit of peace and togetherness always prevails.
HC asks Delhi govt, MCD to act against illegal encroachments on Yamuna Pusta Road
The Delhi High Court has ordered the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the city government to act against illegal encroachments prevailing along the Yamuna Pusta Road, which stretches from Wazirabad to Hiranki and serves as a crucial arterial route for residents and commuters.
2 killed, 6 injured in US university shooting
Two people were killed and six others were injured after an active shooter opened fire on the Florida State University (FSU) campus in Tallahassee on Thursday, law enforcement said at a news conference.
DoNER Minister bats for accelerating the Special Economic Zone in Manipur
Union Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Thursday directed officials to accelerate the pace of key infrastructure projects, including universities, Information Technology and Special Economic Zone in Manipur, mental, maternity and child hospital, officials said.