Kolkata court frames charges against former TMC leader Sheikh Shahjahan, three others in money laundering case
Image Source: The Hindu
A special court in Kolkata, designated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), has framed charges against former Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Sheikh Shahjahan and three others in a money laundering case. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) confirmed this development on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.
The court ordered the framing of charges on June 15, 2026. The accused include Shahjahan, his brother Sheikh Alomgir, and his associates Shib Prasad Hazra and Didar Boksh Molla. All four individuals are currently in judicial custody.
The ED had submitted a comprehensive chargesheet against the accused on May 27, 2024, citing violations of the PMLA. The special court took cognizance of the chargesheet on June 3, 2024, setting the stage for the recent charge framing.
The money laundering probe conducted by the ED originated from multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) lodged by the West Bengal Police. These FIRs encompass serious allegations, including issuing threats, murder, attempt to murder, extortion, and land grabbing. The central agency’s investigation focused on the laundering of proceeds allegedly derived from these criminal activities.
Sheikh Shahjahan was arrested by the ED on March 30, 2024. His arrest was linked to a violent incident on January 5, 2024, when a mob assaulted ED officials who had gone to search his premises in Sandeshkhali, located in the North 24 Parganas district. The search was part of a broader investigation into an alleged scam involving the public distribution system (PDS) for ration in West Bengal, which is a separate but related money laundering case.
In its statements, the ED has alleged that Shahjahan, with the backing of political connections and a group of enforcers, created what the agency described as a "reign of terror" in Sandeshkhali. The ED claims that his criminal activities began with minor offences and progressively evolved into a larger network through coercion and violence.
The agency has detailed that Shahjahan’s illicit wealth accumulation involved multiple illegal methods: land grabbing, unauthorized fish farming and trade, forcible takeover of brick kilns, securing government contracts through his brother Alomgir and other associates, and extortion through illegal levies. The ED further alleges that these proceeds of crime were laundered and presented as legitimate income from a fish business, utilizing a web of trusted individuals to funnel the money back to Shahjahan.
The framing of charges marks the formal commencement of the trial phase. At this stage, the court communicates the specific offences to the accused, who are then required to plead guilty or not guilty. It signifies that the judge has found prima facie evidence to proceed. The accused retain the right to a fair trial and legal defence.
This case has garnered public and media attention due to Shahjahan’s political background and the gravity of the charges, including the attack on ED officials. The Sandeshkhali area has experienced tensions related to land rights and political influence, and the ongoing legal proceedings are being closely monitored. The ED, as the prosecuting agency, will present evidence in the forthcoming trial, while the defence will have the opportunity to counter the allegations.
The case continues as scheduled, with the next hearing likely to address trial procedures and evidence submission.
