Following a court order, the skeletal remains of BJP worker Astik Chandra Das, killed during the 2021 post-poll violence in Sandeshkhali, have been exhumed for forensic testing.

  • Skeletal remains of BJP worker Astik Chandra Das exhumed in Sandeshkhali.
  • The exhumation follows a court order to investigate the 2021 post-poll violence case.
  • Forensic analysis is underway to determine the exact cause of death.
  • The family has demanded a CBI probe into the alleged murder.

In a significant development regarding the 2021 post-poll violence in West Bengal, the skeletal remains of Astik Chandra Das, a local BJP worker, were exhumed on Sunday. The action was taken following a direct order from the court to reopen the investigation into his death in the Sandeshkhali region of North 24 Parganas.

The Incident and Allegations

Astik Chandra Das, a resident of Jhanjhaniya village, was allegedly targeted during the victory processions of the Trinamool Congress (TMC) following the 2021 Assembly election results. His son, Subrata Das, has leveled serious allegations, stating that his father sustained grievous injuries during the assault but was prevented from receiving specialized medical attention. Consequently, Das passed away at his residence.

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The family further alleged that local police personnel were present during the incident and forced them to bury the body without conducting a mandatory post-mortem examination. It was only after a shift in the state's political landscape that a fresh complaint was lodged, leading to the judicial mandate for exhumation.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this case highlights the deep-seated tensions and the struggle for judicial accountability in West Bengal's volatile political climate. The Sandeshkhali region has repeatedly been at the center of national controversy, ranging from political clashes to allegations of sexual abuse, making this forensic investigation a litmus test for the state's law enforcement agencies.

The transition from political allegation to forensic evidence is crucial for establishing a legal truth that can withstand judicial scrutiny.

BJP State President Samik Bhattacharya reacted strongly to the development, characterizing the incident as a manifestation of the 'reign of terror' faced by party workers during the previous administration. He emphasized that the police had remained passive spectators during the alleged atrocities.

Forensic Investigation and Next Steps

The exhumation process, conducted in the presence of a magistrate and the grieving family, was fully videographed by the Nazat police station authorities to ensure transparency. The remains have been dispatched for a comprehensive post-mortem and forensic examination. The findings are expected to be pivotal in determining whether the death was a direct result of the assault or due to other factors.

The family remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice, requesting a CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) inquiry to ensure that those responsible for the violence are brought to book regardless of their political affiliations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why was the body exhumed after five years?
The exhumation was ordered by the court to conduct forensic tests that were allegedly bypassed during the initial burial due to local pressure.

2. What is the significance of the Sandeshkhali region?
Sandeshkhali has gained national attention due to recurring reports of political violence and social unrest in the North 24 Parganas district.

Did You Know?: Forensic exhumation is a rare and highly sensitive legal procedure used primarily when original autopsy reports are missing or suspected to be compromised.