A political controversy has emerged in West Bengal after a video showed officers removing a local Trinamool Congress figure from under a stack of garments during an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The individual has been named as Brahmananda Chakraborty, a TMC worker from Howrah district. Reports indicate officers visited his home amid claims that recipients of the central housing program were required to pay unauthorized fees, locally termed cut money. During the search, authorities found him hidden beneath clothing. Footage of the event spread rapidly on social media and became widely discussed. The matter centers on accusations that funds intended for beneficiaries under the housing scheme were reduced before distribution. Investigators are reviewing claims that commissions were sought from applicants. The phrase cut money has featured repeatedly in state debates concerning welfare programs. The video prompted responses from various political groups, who cited it as evidence of broader issues in benefit delivery. The arrest has renewed criticism of the ruling party over alleged misuse of public schemes. The Trinamool Congress has not provided an extended comment. Authorities continue examining whether the case involves individual actions or wider involvement in improper collections.
