KOLKATA: Social and political activist and BJP leader of West Bengal Mr. Abhijit Das Bobby has submitted a detailed complaint to police authorities alleging large-scale illegal excavation, destruction of wetlands, and possible financial irregularities across parts of South 24 Parganas district. The complaint, which also mentions Trinamool Congress MP , calls for a comprehensive investigation into the alleged activities.
The complaint, addressed to the Inspector-in-Charge of Kalitala-Asuti Police Station with copies sent to senior police officials of Diamond Harbour Police District, was filed by Abhijit Das Bobby, who identified himself as a social and political activist.
According to the document, Abhijit alleged that a vast area surrounding MLA Lake and adjoining wetlands near Shankharipota Main Road in the Joka-Raipur region has been subjected to years of illegal excavation and environmental degradation. The allegations are based on historical satellite imagery, local inputs and field observations mentioned in the complaint.
It is important to note that the allegations contained in the complaint are yet to be independently verified by investigating authorities, and no official findings establishing criminal liability have been announced.
Allegations of Environmental Damage
In his complaint, Abhijit Das Bobby alleged that the activities have severely affected wetlands, fisheries and natural drainage systems across overlapping jurisdictions of Kalitala, Asuti and Bishnupur police station areas.
He claimed that approximately 53.98 acres of land and associated water bodies may have undergone significant alteration over several years. The complaint states that natural ecosystems, flood-retention areas and fisheries have allegedly been transformed through excavation activities.
Bobby further alleged that the destruction has impacted groundwater recharge zones and increased flooding risks for nearby residential areas.
The complaint repeatedly called for drone mapping, Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) surveys and scientific volumetric assessments to determine the exact extent of the alleged environmental damage and the quantity of excavated material.
Satellite Imagery Cited as Supporting Material
One of the central aspects of the complaint involves historical satellite imagery between 2017 and 2025.
According to Abhijit Das Bobby, earlier images depicted natural water bodies and low-lying ecosystems, while later images allegedly show signs of extensive excavation and landscape transformation.
The complaint claimed that visible changes indicate prolonged activities involving heavy machinery, transportation networks and commercial movement of excavated earth.
However, satellite images alone do not constitute proof of criminal wrongdoing and require verification by competent authorities, technical experts and investigating agencies.
Names Mentioned for Investigation, Including Abhishek Banerjee
A significant section of the complaint requested authorities to investigate the role, if any, of multiple individuals. Among those named was , alongside several local political leaders, contractors and individuals from the area. The complaint specifically stated that the names were being provided “solely for the purpose of investigation and verification.”
It further requested that authorities independently examine documentary, financial, electronic and oral evidence before arriving at any conclusions.
Abhijit Das Bobby urged investigators to go beyond field-level workers and identify organisers, financiers, transport operators, contractors and any ultimate beneficiaries who may have gained from the alleged excavation activities.
As of now, there has been no public response available from Abhishek Banerjee regarding these specific allegations contained in the complaint.
Demand for Financial Investigation
BJP Leader Abhijit also called for a detailed financial audit. According to the complaint, investigators should determine:
- The quantity of excavated earth removed.
- The estimated market value of the material.
- Potential commercial transactions associated with the excavation.
- Banking and cash transactions linked to the alleged operations.
- Any beneficiaries who may have profited from the activities.
The complaint argued that unless authorities trace the complete financial trail, those allegedly responsible could remain hidden behind intermediaries and ground-level operators.
Multiple Legal Provisions Invoked
Abhijit Das Bobby cited numerous legal provisions in support of his demand for police intervention.
The complaint referred to provisions under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, the Environment Protection Act, the Water Act, the West Bengal Inland Fisheries Act and the Wetlands Rules.
He requested immediate registration of an FIR if authorities find sufficient grounds after examining the allegations.
The document also sought seizure of machinery, preservation of electronic evidence, CCTV footage and transport records.
Political Sensitivity Surrounding Complaint
The inclusion of Abhishek Banerjee’s name has added political significance to the matter, particularly because he represents the Diamond Harbour parliamentary constituency and serves as one of the most prominent leaders of the Trinamool Congress.
However, legal experts often emphasise that mentioning an individual’s name in a complaint does not automatically establish involvement, guilt or wrongdoing.
Under Indian law, complaints serve as information requiring examination by investigating authorities. Any determination of culpability can only emerge through an impartial investigation supported by evidence.
Courts have consistently held that allegations contained in complaints remain allegations until substantiated through due process.
Seeks Immediate Administrative Action
In his concluding remarks, Abhijit Das Bobby urged authorities to treat the issue as one of urgent public importance involving environmental protection and public assets. He sought an Action Taken Report after completion of inquiry and verification processes.
The complaint called for immediate site preservation measures, protection of witnesses and coordination among multiple government departments.
Whether a formal criminal case will be registered or additional inquiries will be initiated now depends entirely upon the assessment of the concerned police and administrative authorities.
For now, the complaint has brought renewed attention to concerns surrounding environmental protection, wetland conservation and accountability in rapidly urbanising regions of South 24 Parganas, while also placing the names of Abhijit Das Bobby and Abhishek Banerjee at the centre of a developing issue that may witness further legal and political developments in the coming days.
