Kolkata, West Bengal

The Enforcement Directorate on Saturday (Mar 30) arrested suspended Trinamool Congress leader Shajahan Sheikh in connection with a PMLA case.

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The development came as the probe agency interrogated him at the Basirhat Sub Correctional Home, where he is currently lodged. 

He is set to be produced before the ED Special Court. 

Shahjahan, who has also been accused of forcefully occupying lands in the Sandeshkhali area, was questioned inside the prison for over four hours after receiving permission from the Basirhat sub-divisional court in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.

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He was arrested on February 29 by the West Bengal Police over an attack that was carried out by his supporters on a team of ED officials.

The probe agency team members were attacked by the mob while they were on their way to conduct a raid on Shahjahan's house in Sandeshkhali over an alleged ration scam on January 5.

He was arrested after being on the run on for over 55 days following violent protests led by women, alleging sexual atrocities and land grabs.

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Shahjahan was suspended by the Trinamool Congress for six years following his arrest.

The case was transferred by the Calcutta High Court to CBI on March 6.

Also read: 'They only know how to cook': Congress MLA gets embroiled in controversy over sexist remark

CBI arrests Shahjahan's brother for involvement in Sandeshkhali ED assault case

Earlier this month, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) had arrested three accused over involvement in the Sandeshkhali ED assault case, including Shahjahan's brother.

The accused were identified as Mafujar Molla, Sirajul Molla and Sheikh Alomgir.

A total of six people have so far been arrested by the CBI in the case and a probe is underway.

NCW submits report on Sandeshkhali to President

Rekha Sharma, who is the National Commission for Women chairperson, met President Droupadi Murmu earlier this month and submitted a report on the Sandeshkhali violence, the India-based news agency PTI reported citing sources. The commission recommended the President's Rule in West Bengal over the Sandeshkhali violence.

A fact-finding report was also prepared by the commission which said that it has gathered disturbing testimonies of women alleging widespread fear and systematic abuse by both police officers and members of the ruling Trinamool Congress. 

(With inputs from agencies)