Man detained for alleged surveillance of TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee
What's the story
A Mumbai resident was detained by Kolkata Police Special Task Force and detective department on Monday for allegedly spying on a top West Bengal politician.
Rajaram Rege was arrested on allegations of conducting surveillance on Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee's home and offices.
"He had visited Kolkata, stayed here, and conducted a recce of TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee's offices and residence," an official said.
Rege now faces charges under various sections of Indian Penal Code (IPC), including criminal conspiracy.
Context
Why does this story matter?
The incident comes amidst the ongoing Lok Sabha polls, wherein Banerjee is contesting from West Bengal's Diamond Harbour constituency.
In recent times, major political parties have alleged espionage by their electoral rivals.
In Telangana, the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has been accused of spying on the Congress.
Communication attempts
Accused attempted contact with TMC leader and PA
Rege reportedly obtained the mobile numbers of Banerjee, who also serves as the TMC Diamond Harbor MP, and his assistant (PA). He then tried to call them.
Authorities have disclosed that Rege had previous links with David Headley, a key suspect in a Mumbai terror attack case.
The nature and extent of Rege's association with Headley are yet to be determined by the investigators.
Rege's actions are now under investigation by authorities.
Twitter Post
Visuals: Kolkata Police arrests Rege
#Breaking : #Kolkata police has arrested #RajaramRege from #Mumbai for allegedly hatching a conspiracy to attack #TMC national gen secy #AbhishekBanerjee. Rege was allegedly involved in the 26/11 #Mumbaiattacks, known to have alleged met #DavidHeadly. pic.twitter.com/Il42uNypiR
— News Bangla 7 (@news_bangla_7) April 22, 2024
Mamata Banerjee
Mamata Banerjee alleges consipracy against her, Banerjee
Just a day ago, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee accused the BJP of conspiring against her and nephew Abhishek, and said they were "not safe."
She claimed the saffron party had been targeting her and the TMC general secretary.
"We are not safe, but we are also not afraid of the saffron party's conspiracy," she had said.
Intrestingly, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari had earlier predicted that a "big explosion which will shake the TMC and its top brass".