Sand mafia's new move! First under the umbrella of Trinamool, now trying to establish 'empire' by increasing proximity with BJP
Allegations of running illegal business on the basis of political patronage in Suryanagar Damodar Ghat area, speculations of it becoming active again after the change of power increases.
Asansol, West Bengal: Once again the market of discussions is hot regarding illegal sand business in Suryanagar Damodar River Ghat area under Hirapur police station area of Asansol. According to local sources, during the rule of Trinamool Congress, a businessman named Parimal, under the alleged patronage of an influential Trinamool leader of the state, had carried out the business of illegally lifting sand from the Damodar River Ghats on a large scale. Sources claim that during that time, not just one but several sand stock points were created in the area, where arrangements were made for sand to be collected, processed and sold. It is alleged that the sand business was carried on illegally for a long time, avoiding the attention of the administration, due to which the businessman concerned got huge financial benefits. However, the situation changed after the change of government in the state. After the formation of the BJP government, this business almost came to a standstill due to increased administrative action and monitoring on illegal sand business in the Damodar River Ghat area. Local people say that the area which once saw activities day and night, suddenly became silent. Now there is talk in the area that the said businessman has changed his political allegiance and has started growing closer to some BJP leaders. Sources claim that he is once again preparing to become active in the sand business and is trying to take the help of political contacts for this. However, these allegations have not been independently confirmed nor has there been any official response in this regard from the concerned businessmen or BJP leaders. At present, this question remains a topic of discussion in the area whether the change in political equation with the change of power will give a boost to illegal business again, or will the administration strictly stop any such efforts. Everyone's eyes are fixed on the actions of the administration and activities in the area in the coming days.
