New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has denied claims of assaulting residents in Bhupatinagar, West Bengal while conducting searches related to a blast case. The NIA team faced a violent attack from a mob during their operation in Naruabila village, leading to allegations of hindering their lawful duties.
According to the NIA, the attack was described as unprovoked and an attempt to obstruct their search activities, which were carried out in the presence of independent witnesses at five locations with CRPF security cover. Two suspects linked to the bomb blast incident were arrested by the NIA in East Midnapore district following proper legal procedures.
Amidst these events, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the NIA, accusing them of working in favor of the BJP and engaging in questionable tactics before the elections. Banerjee questioned the timing and methods employed by the NIA, suggesting political motivations behind the arrests and searches conducted at midnight.
The NIA defended its actions, highlighting that their personnel were assaulted while carrying out their duties, resulting in injuries to an officer and damage to official vehicles. Despite the accusations, the NIA filed a police complaint seeking legal actions against those involved in the attack on their team.
The special NIA court in Kolkata addressed the seriousness of the allegations against the suspects, granting the agency the authority to pursue their investigation promptly. The court emphasized the adherence to legal procedures and the urgency in conducting thorough investigations in accordance with the relevant laws.
The clash between the NIA team and local residents in Bhupatinagar underscores the tensions surrounding anti-terror operations and the complexities of conducting investigations in politically charged environments. The incident reflects the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in balancing security protocols with community relations during sensitive operations.