BISHALGARH: A car driver from Simna became the latest victim of alleged syndicate high-handedness on Friday, when he was assaulted and had his mobile phone snatched near the Bishalgarh bypass over a dispute regarding a “clearance” fee.
The driver, identified as Suraj Roy of Simna Panchabati, was on his way to Bishalgarh to collect rubber saplings when his vehicle was stopped near the bypass by persons claiming to be BMS (Bishalgarh Motor Stand) leaders, who demanded he obtain a clearance permit before proceeding.
Roy reportedly told them his vehicle was not registered under the Bishalgarh syndicate and questioned why he should be required to pay. This, he alleged, triggered an immediate assault upon him, during which his mobile phone was also snatched.
When Roy said he intended to report the matter to the police, the men allegedly told him that local police “act on their instructions,” further intimidating him.
Following the incident, the aggrieved driver approached local MLA Sushanta Deb, seeking justice and intervention in the matter.
The incident has once again brought into focus allegations of syndicate-style extortion operating unchecked on stretches of road in the region, with victims often citing reluctance or inability to seek police redress.