CPI-M leader Layek Ali was arrested by the Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police for his alleged involvement in the unrest in Baruipur. Ali, who contested this year’s Assembly election as the Left Front candidate from the Baruipur Paschim constituency, was taken into custody without specific charges being disclosed. Sources indicate that his arrest is linked to incidents of road blockades, vandalism, and attacks on police during protests following the alleged rape and murder of a minor girl.
According to a senior West Bengal Police officer, Layek Ali was apprehended by the STF due to alleged inflammatory remarks made in connection with the protests that ensued after the tragic incident in Baruipur. The area witnessed significant turmoil following the discovery of the minor girl’s body on July 5, prompting Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari to visit twice, promising severe repercussions for those involved in the crime and those inciting violence during protests.
The unrest in Suryapur, Baruipur, led to several arrests, including Layek’s, based on claims that he had a role in instigating violence. Police sources mentioned his presence at the protest site on the day of the incident and stated that his arrest was supported by evidence uncovered during investigations. Layek Ali is scheduled to appear before the Baruipur Sub-Divisional Court, with ongoing investigations into the involvement of others in the unrest.
In the aftermath of the minor girl’s tragic fate, which sparked widespread outrage and demonstrations, four individuals have been arrested in connection with the crime. Among them, Pravas Mondal was fatally shot during an alleged escape attempt from police custody. With Layek Ali’s arrest, the total number of individuals detained in connection with the Baruipur unrest has now reached 38, drawing criticism from the CPI(M) leadership, including Sujan Chakraborty, who denounced the arrest as politically motivated.
