Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, February 12, 2025, Kolkata : BJP Member of Parliament Jyotirmoy Singh Mahato has raised serious concerns regarding the safety of Partha Chatterjee, a senior leader from the Trinamool Congress (TMC), following the latter’s recent detention. Drawing a stark comparison with the controversial death of Maoist leader Kishanji, Mahato expressed fears that Chatterjee might face a similar fate while in custody. In a letter to West Bengal Governor CV Anand Bose, Mahato urged for increased security measures to protect Chatterjee, citing concerns about his safety while incarcerated.
Mahato’s comments followed a statement by Abhishek Banerjee, a key figure in the TMC, who had publicly acknowledged that Kishanji was killed in an encounter with the state police, rather than being arrested as was initially claimed. Mahato pointed to this admission and warned that Chatterjee’s life could be at risk, noting, “Please ensure that the condition of Partha in jail does not become like that of Kishanji.” His comments have sparked debate about the potential for high-profile figures, like Chatterjee, to be targeted while in custody, reflecting the intense political climate in the state.
The BJP MP also made it clear that he had received intelligence suggesting that Chatterjee’s survival could lead to further revelations. “If Partha is alive, many heads may come forward in the future,” he stated, hinting at the possible exposure of more people linked to the corruption cases surrounding the TMC leader. Mahato also suggested that Chatterjee could consider becoming a “Rajsakshi” (a state witness), implying that cooperating with investigations might reduce his culpability. He warned, however, that there would be no hiding from the sins Chatterjee had allegedly committed.
Another issue raised by Mahato was the circumstances surrounding Chatterjee’s recent medical treatment. Questions have been raised about why Chatterjee, who had been admitted to SSKM Hospital—traditionally the go-to hospital for prominent leaders and ministers in the state—was suddenly moved to a private hospital. Mahato used this development as a tool to emphasize his concerns over the handling of Chatterjee’s health and safety while in custody.
As the investigation into Chatterjee’s involvement in corruption cases continues, his fate remains a topic of political contention, with many watching closely for any signs of further developments. Mahato’s appeal to Governor Bose underscores the political tension and growing concerns over the safety and security of individuals caught in the state’s political and legal battles.