By TC News Desk
Agartala, 27th September 2024: A storm of controversy has erupted in the Purba Gakulnagar gram panchayat following allegations of the illegal sale of disputed land for Rs 36 lakh. The accusations are directed at Jiban Das, husband of the newly-elected Gram Pradhan Shikha Das and Upa-Pradhan Prantosh Chakraborty.
Local sources claim that Jiban Das, who has a history of misconduct including stealing road bricks and misappropriating government facilities staged the sale. “Das has always been a controversial figure. Despite numerous allegations, he managed to get his wife elected unopposed as the head of the panchayat,” said a local resident.
The disputed land a two-and-a-half kani plot has been under the panchayat’s possession for 30 years and includes a crematorium built during the left period. “This land has been a part of our community for decades. It’s shocking to hear that it was sold off secretly,” noted another local.
Reports suggest that after the BJP government came into power, Das eyed the land and attempted to take control three years ago but was thwarted by local opposition. However, with his wife now in power, he allegedly succeeded in selling two kani plots for Rs 36 lakh, with the transaction taking place while the local residents were unaware.
The news has sent shockwaves through the community. “The entire area is in a frenzy. There are rumors that Jeevan Das plans to relocate the crematorium, which has further angered the residents,” said a local leader.
The villagers are now anxiously waiting to see what actions will be taken against the accused. “Within a month of becoming the village head, such a scandal has surfaced. We dread to think what might happen in the next five years,” remarked a concerned villager.