BJP govt has given police free hand against gangsters: Bengal minister Dilip Ghosh
West Bengal Panchayat Minister Dilip Ghosh on Sunday said the BJP government has given a free hand to the police to take action against gangsters in the state. Speaking at a function in Kharagpur, the senior BJP leader asserted that the “threat culture” is now a thing of the past.
“I have asked the police to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards criminal elements. No mafia will be allowed to step foot on the soil of Kharagpur,” Mr. Ghosh said, addressing the gathering.
The minister also referred to the previous TMC rule in the state, saying, “Forget about what happened during the TMC rule in West Bengal. The BJP government has given a free hand to the police to take action against mafia and gangsters.”
Mr. Ghosh further stated that if a crime is grave and the situation warrants, an “encounter by the police will be the last resort”. The remark comes amid ongoing debates over police conduct and human rights in the state.
Political observers note that such statements are often made by ruling party leaders to reassure the public about law and order, but they also raise questions about the limits of police power. The minister’s comments have not been independently verified, and opposition parties may seek clarification on what constitutes a “last resort” encounter.
The Kharagpur MLA’s speech reflects the BJP’s tough stance on crime as it seeks to consolidate its position in West Bengal. However, critics argue that giving a “free hand” to police could lead to excesses. The state government has yet to issue an official guideline on the matter.
