Former Naihati Municipality chairman and Trinamool Congress leader Ashok Chatterjee was arrested by West Bengal police over allegations of financial irregularities and corruption. Chatterjee was taken from his residence in Naihati to the local police station following complaints regarding financial misconduct related to a local temple. Investigators are also looking into separate corruption accusations against him.
He is expected to appear before the Barrackpore Sub-Divisional Court later in the day, with investigators likely to request seven days of police custody. Additionally, another case has been filed against Chatterjee under various sections of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges of illegal assembly and rioting.
Chatterjee, addressing local media, expressed his belief that there might have been an error or injustice, stating his 11 years of service to the people. In response, Naihati BJP MLA Sumitro Chatterjee emphasized the importance of accountability, suggesting that those responsible for any wrongdoing should face legal consequences.
Sumitro Chatterjee highlighted the need for transparency, especially concerning financial matters involving the temple committee, of which Ashok Chatterjee was the chairman. He also announced intentions to advocate for an audit through a committee to address the allegations of financial misappropriation. The temple committee secretary, Tapas Bhattacharya, was the one who raised concerns about financial irregularities involving the Trinamool leader.
The arrest of Ashok Chatterjee comes shortly after his son, Abhijit Chatterjee, was also arrested on separate charges, including corruption, sexual harassment, extortion, and assault. Naihati municipality, established in 1869 and known for being one of the oldest in the country, holds significance as the birthplace of Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
