The Calcutta High Court has instructed the West Bengal Police to refrain from arresting Atin Ghosh, a former Trinamool Congress legislator and Kolkata Municipal Corporation Deputy Mayor, while his bail plea is under consideration. Ghosh sought anticipatory bail in a case related to land-grabbing charges, which was scheduled for a hearing before Justice Tirthankar Ghosh on Monday but got postponed to Tuesday. Despite the delay, the court ordered the police to ensure Ghosh’s protection from arrest until the case is resolved.
Last month, Bidhannagar North Police summoned Ghosh and his daughter for questioning regarding the land-grabbing case. Subsequently, Ghosh approached the Calcutta High Court seeking anticipatory bail. Justice Ghosh, while adjourning the hearing, cautioned against immediate arrests by the police once interim protection expires, emphasizing the need to avoid coercive actions during pending cases.
Responding to the court’s concerns, the public prosecutor assured that the police would act judiciously based on individual case circumstances and refrain from coercive actions against the accused during ongoing legal proceedings. The case against Ghosh and his daughter involves allegations of land grabbing and a financial fraud amounting to Rs 50 lakh, with a hotel owner claiming his property was unlawfully acquired for a nominal sum.
Atin Ghosh refuted the accusations, asserting that his daughter had legitimately purchased the property in question. Denying any involvement in corrupt practices during his political career spanning five decades, Ghosh expressed readiness to cooperate with the police investigation if required, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and accountability.
