Days after viral audio row, TMC's Anubrata appears at SDPO office
Kolkata, June 5 (UNI) Nearly a week after an audio clip surfaced in which Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Anubrata Mondal was allegedly heard abusing the Officer-in-Charge (IC) of Bolpur police station, the Birbhum strongman finally appeared at the Bolpur SDPO office on Thursday.
Although it remains unclear whether Mondal underwent formal interrogation, police sources said his mobile phone was seized. Additionally, the phone of the Bolpur IC has also been confiscated, and a departmental inquiry launched against him.
The controversy erupted after an audio clip went viral where Mondal is allegedly heard directing vulgar abuse at the IC, including threats of physical assault. The speaker is heard saying the IC would be dragged out of the police station and beaten, while also using profanities. He also expressed anger over the police report concerning a recent political rally.
The audio triggered a political storm, prompting the TMC to demand an unconditional apology from Mondal within hours or face disciplinary action. Initially, Mondal denied that the voice in the clip was his. However, he later sent a letter to TMC state president Subrata Bakshi, expressing regret.
In the letter, Mondal wrote: 'Hope you are well. My regards to you. For the recent incident, I unconditionally apologise at all levels.'
The police, however had filed a case against Mondal under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 224 (obstructing government work and threatening an on-duty officer), Section 132 (harassing a government employee), Section 75 (outraging modesty and harassment), and Section 351 (issuing threats). On Friday evening, he was served a notice to appear at the Bolpur SDPO office before noon on Saturday.
Mondal failed to comply with the first notice, sending his lawyers in his place. Citing health concerns, his legal team requested additional time. Police then issued a second notice, instructing him to report to the SDPO office by 11 am on Sunday.
Mondal told that media that he was suffering from cough and cold and had developed Covid symptoms. So he couldn't appear before the police.
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