Kolkata, July 15: The West Bengal police arrested Ashok Chatterjee, former chairman of the Naihati municipality and a leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), on charges of financial irregularities and corruption on Wednesday.
Police took Chatterjee into custody from his residence in Naihati and brought him to the local police station. His arrest followed complaints regarding alleged financial discrepancies related to a temple in the city, filed by some members of the temple committee. Additionally, investigators are looking into other corruption allegations against him.
According to police sources, Ashok Chatterjee is set to be presented in the Barrackpore Sub-Divisional Court on Wednesday. Investigating officers may request the court to place him in police custody for seven days.
The police have registered another case against Chatterjee under several sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including charges of unlawful assembly and rioting.
In a conversation with local media, he stated, “I have served the people for 11 years. I believe there has been some injustice or misunderstanding regarding my situation.”
Responding to the case, BJP MLA from Naihati, Sumitro Chatterjee, emphasized that if any wrongdoing has occurred, those responsible should face legal action. He mentioned that as the chairman of the temple committee, Ashok Chatterjee cannot evade responsibility if financial irregularities are proven. He also suggested forming a committee to conduct an audit of the entire matter.
Notably, Tapas Bhattacharya, secretary of the temple committee, has accused Ashok Chatterjee of financial misconduct and manipulation of funds.
Chatterjee’s arrest comes just days after his son, Abhijit Chatterjee, was detained on separate charges related to corruption, sexual harassment, extortion, and assault.
The Naihati municipality is one of the oldest municipalities in the country, established in 1869. It is also the birthplace of the renowned writer Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.
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