Two policemen have been arrested by the special investigation team (SIT) set up by the West Bengal government to probe the death of Indian Secular Front (ISF) youth leader and former SFI member Anis Khan.
The state, particularly Kolkata, witnessed violent protests on Tuesday and Wednesday over his death. Khan, who was part of the anti-CAA protests, was allegedly pushed down from the terrace of his house in Amta on Saturday.
CPI(M) workers took out protest marches, demanding action against those responsible. The protesters ghearoed several Trinamool Congress leaders, including ministers, in different parts of the state.
Many students were arrested in Kolkata on Tuesday for protesting against the alleged murder of Khan.
Director General of Police Manoj Malviya told reporters on Wednesday that Kashinath Bera, a home guard at the Amta police station, and Pritam Bhattacharjee have been arrested.
“We have found their involvement in the case. How they are involved and in what way cannot be told now for the sake of investigation. We will reveal everything in a few days,” said Malviya.
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee deplored the politicisation of the crime. “I have told police that I or anybody from my government would not interfere in the investigation. I have given full freedom to the SIT."
The DGP said the family and the local people are not cooperating with the investigation.
“We have not been given the mobile phone of the deceased. Even family members refused to give us details. The investigation is carried out by DIG, CID, who is a very competent officer. We had earlier suspended three policemen. Even autopsy is not allowed by exhuming the body. This is very unfortunate,” Malviya said.
However, the family members of the deceased expressed dissatisfaction over the police probe and continued to demand CBI investigation. The family members allegedly had received a threat call, asking them not to demand CBI probe or face consequences.
“How can I believe the state government? My son had no enmity with police. Those who sent the policemen to my home should also be arrested. Until then, I will keep pressing for CBI investigation,” Salam Khan, father of the deceased, said.
A senior police officer, however, said the arrested policemen are contract staff and not permanent employees.
