BJP MP’s presence at event hosted by controversial businessman raises eyebrows

With the Assembly elections fast approaching, the state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has found itself at the centre of a political storm following a foundation stone-laying ceremony for a private hospital at Muchipara in Kankasa.

The event was attended by party’s state president Shamik Bhattacharya. One of the organisers was local marble businessman Hiranmoy Das, who recently joined the BJP. His presence has sparked controversy due to allegations dating back to 2022.

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Das was arrested by the Delhi Police on charges of rape. He spent nearly three months in custody at Tihar Jail. Das, however, has consistently denied the allegations, claiming he was falsely implicated in a conspiracy for financial gain. He stated that the matter was settled last month and that he had been proven innocent.

Beyond the rape allegation, political circles have also raised claims of wetland encroachment and illegal occupation of government land against him. In this context, opposition parties have questioned the presence of senior BJP leaders at the launch of his hospital project. Among those attending the ceremony were MP Soumitra Khan and Durgapur West MLA Laxman Gharui.

Responding to the controversy, Shamik Bhattacharya said, “There is rule of law in the country. Whoever has a complaint against him should pursue it legally. If anyone has evidence, they should approach the police.”

The West Burdwan district unit of the Trinamul Congress has seized upon the issue during its election campaign. District vice-president Uttam Mukherjee alleged that Das was attempting to shield himself politically by aligning with the BJP and expanding his business interests. He claimed that the people of Bengal would “respond in time”.