Police arrested a local leader associated with the All India Trinamool Congress following allegations of extortion at a toto stand in Malda district. The arrest came after several e-rickshaw drivers complained about alleged illegal collection of money and intimidation at the stand.According to sources, toto drivers operating in the area had allegedly been forced to pay money regularly in order to continue using the stand and carrying passengers.
Drivers who failed to pay were reportedly threatened and faced difficulties in operating their vehicles.Acting on the complaints, police launched an investigation and later conducted raids in the locality. During the operation, the accused Trinamool leader was detained and subsequently arrested. Police officials are now investigating whether more individuals were involved in the alleged extortion racket. The incident sparked political tension in the area, with opposition parties targeting the ruling party over allegations of corruption and illegal collections.
Local leaders of the Trinamool Congress, however, stated that the law would take its own course and maintained that the party does not support unlawful activities.Meanwhile, several toto drivers welcomed the police action and demanded strict measures against illegal syndicates operating at transport stands. Police have begun recording statements from drivers and local residents as part of the ongoing investigation.The incident has once again brought attention to complaints regarding illegal collections and control over public transport stands in different parts of Malda district.
