3 held from MLA hostel, police say using Abhishek’s name used in extortion bid

Those arrested have been identified as — Junedul Haque Chowdhury, Subhadip Malik, and Taslim Sheikh. Police also learnt that the guest room (417) was booked by BJP MLA Nikhil Ranjan Dey of Cooch Behar.

Hostel authorities were unavailable for comments.

TMC district chief of Purba Bardhman and party MLA Katwa, Rabindranath Chattopadhyay said, “Some miscreants called Dutta for money.  He informed Abhishek’ office and the police.”

As per police, a call was made to Dutta, allegedly demanding Rupees 5 lakhs in the name of TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee. The caller alleged there were multiple complaints of financial irregularities against Dutta and threatened police action unless ransom was paid.  Dutta contacted Banerjee’s Camac Street office to verify the call and on learning that they did not, Dutta was advised by Banerjee’s office to file a police complaint.

Subsequently, Dutta lodged a complaint at Shakespeare Sarani Police Station, alleging that he received a suspicious call from an unknown number, with the caller claiming to be from TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee’s office.

Additionally, the police also learnt that the guest room (417) from where the accused were arrested was booked by BJP MLA Nikhil Ranjan Dey of Cooch Behar. Further investigation is underway.

However, the hostel authorities were unavailable to comment on the issue.

Reacting to the incident, TMC district president of Purba Bardhman and party MLA Katwa, Rabindranath Chattopadhyay said, “Some miscreants called Dutta for money. But he has doubts. He informed Abhishek Banerjee’s office and then the police. We don’t think it will tarnish our party’s image.”