Former Trinamool Congress legislator Saokat Molla has been remanded to 14 days of NIA custody by a special court in Kolkata. This action is in connection with a bomb blast that occurred at Bhangar in West Bengal’s South 24 Parganas district before the recent Assembly polls. Saokat Molla will appear before the NIA court again on June 19.
After his arrest, the NIA recovered a mobile phone and a pen drive from Saokat’s possession. The court has approved the NIA’s request for forensic examinations of these items. Previously, the NIA had arrested three individuals linked to the blast. While two are in jail custody, the third person remains in NIA custody.
During the court proceedings, Saokat’s counsel sought bail, which was opposed by the NIA counsel. The NIA argued that as a former influential MLA, Saokat might tamper with evidence if released on bail. Saokat’s counsel highlighted his Z-category security background, claiming his innocence in the blast case.
The NIA counsel countered by alleging that Saokat had been in contact with the other accused post-blast, providing them with instructions. Considering the arguments, the judge ruled in favor of the NIA, sending Saokat to 14 days of NIA custody.
Saokat attempted to flee to Bangladesh but was intercepted by local villagers near the border. Despite his escape, NIA surveillance led to his arrest midway to the NIA office in Kolkata.
