Residents of Bural village in West Bengal’s Paschim Medinipur district have staged protests against Tapan Hazra, a land officer in the Sabang area. They are calling for his arrest following the discovery of water pipes, bombs, and guns at his residence. Locals also accuse Hazra of mistreating and harassing women in the community.
A resident named Haripad revealed, “We found various items including water pipes, tarpaulins, clothing, bombs, and guns at Tapan Hazra’s house. We have sought justice from the authorities because someone involved in such criminal activities should not be allowed to stay here.” Haripad further alleged that Hazra had intimidated them with a pistol.
Despite showing the weapons to the police, the locals claim that the authorities have not yet seized them. They are demanding the immediate arrest of Hazra and appropriate legal action against him. The community is determined to ensure that justice is served in this matter.
Drawing parallels with a similar case involving alleged misconduct by a local Trinamool Congress leader, Rahman Mir highlighted the prevalence of such incidents of lawlessness in the state. Mir stated, “Apart from the recent water pipe incident, Hazra was known to socialize with women in our area. He coerced women into serving alcohol, and if they refused, he verbally abused them. Numerous complaints have been filed against him.”
Mir also mentioned the financial losses incurred by the residents due to Hazra’s actions, with one individual reportedly losing Rs. 2 lakh. The community members have taken matters into their own hands, recovering a significant amount of the stocked water supply pipes from Hazra’s residence. They are determined to see justice served and peace restored in the village.
Advocating for the arrest of Tapan Hazra, Mir emphasized the importance of bringing him to justice to ensure tranquility in the area. He expressed confidence that Hazra’s arrest and subsequent interrogation would reveal further evidence and expose his associates involved in these illegal activities.
