Israfil Chakdar, an associate of Trinamool Congress leader Jehangir Khan, was detained by West Bengal Police on Wednesday night. He is scheduled to appear before the Diamond Harbour Court on Thursday.
Residents, including women from Falta’s Hashim Nagar area, had accused Chakdar of intimidating locals and issuing threats door-to-door with associates after the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections. Demonstrations calling for his detention occurred in the region after voting. Chakdar had reportedly evaded authorities for days prior to his arrest.
During the elections, residents alleged that Chakdar and other TMC workers threatened violence if the party did not retain power. A local woman told ANI that Chakdar warned residents of arson and violence if the BJP won. Another resident claimed that despite supporting TMC, she and others faced intimidation from party workers.
The area sought Chakdar’s arrest and protection for women. The Falta constituency drew attention during the elections due to claims of irregularities and voter intimidation. Traditionally a TMC stronghold since 2011, several booths faced scrutiny in 2026 over alleged malpractice. The BJP accused ruling party workers of widespread misconduct.
In the subsequent repoll, BJP candidate Debangshu Panda won decisively, defeating TMC’s Jahangir Khan by 1.09 lakh votes. Khan had withdrawn from the race before polling but remained on the ballot.
