The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested 15 more individuals in connection with the April 1 attack on judicial officers in Malda, West Bengal. With these arrests, the total number of accused held in the case has risen to around 65.
The arrests were made during late-night raids in Mothabari and Kaliachak areas. Those detained face charges of illegal confinement of judicial officers, intimidation, and obstruction of official duties during the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
The incident occurred at the Kaliachak-II Block Office in Mothabari, where seven judicial officers, including women officers, were held hostage for several hours by a violent mob protesting voter roll verification. The Supreme Court described the attack as a deliberate attempt to intimidate judicial officers.
CCTV footage, viral videos, and confiscated mobile phones are being analyzed to identify further conspirators. Earlier arrests included local political leaders and advocates linked to the violence.
The Supreme Court has directed the NIA to expedite the investigation and ensure adequate protection for judicial officers, underscoring the seriousness of the attack and its implications for electoral integrity in West Bengal.
