Firing in Bishalgarh over alleged 50 Lakh extortion demand; panic grips locals

In a shocking incident, miscreants allegedly linked to Ranbir Debnath—reportedly a close associate of the Bishalgarh MLA—opened fire at the residence of BJP district member and former booth president Anup Kumar Saha, alias Madhu, over an alleged ₹50 lakh extortion demand.

According to sources, the attack is linked to a dispute over payment of a commission related to the opening of a paper block factory. The assailants reportedly fired four rounds in two separate incidents, triggering panic in the Netaji Nagar area of Bishalgarh.

On Friday afternoon, associates of Ranbir Debnath allegedly contacted Saha’s wife via video call and demanded Rs 50 lakh. They reportedly issued a threat stating that if the amount was not paid by evening, Saha would be shot before sunrise the next day.

It is further alleged that after Saha spoke directly with Debnath, his associates opened fire, discharging two rounds at his residence. Later, in the early hours of Saturday, the attackers returned and fired two more rounds.

The incident has raised serious concerns regarding law enforcement and alleged political patronage. Questions are being raised over the lack of immediate action against Ranbir Debnath despite allegations of his involvement in multiple criminal activities. The absence of prompt police response has also fueled speculation about a possible nexus.

Family members of the victim claimed that the accused are absconding in several criminal cases. The attackers reportedly arrived in an e-rickshaw, and the entire incident was captured on CCTV cameras installed in the locality.

The firing has sparked outrage among residents, who allege a growing trend of criminal activities in Bishalgarh. Locals claim that the accused has long been involved in crimes such as theft, robbery, and bombing, yet no effective action has been taken. Repeated incidents and public threats on social media have intensified concerns over alleged administrative inaction.

Some residents have also expressed suspicion that such brazen acts, carried out openly with firearms, may not be possible without backing from influential groups, raising further questions about who might be shielding the accused.

The incident has created an atmosphere of fear in the area, with residents questioning whether law and order is being effectively maintained or if criminal elements are becoming increasingly emboldened.

Meanwhile, Superintendent of Police (Sepahijala district) Bijoy Debbarma visited the spot on Saturday along with forensic experts. The team has collected crucial evidence from the scene.

The SP said that a specific case has been registered and assured that those involved in the firing would be arrested at the earliest. He added that police surveillance and patrolling have been intensified in the area and urged residents not to panic, stating that adequate security forces have been deployed to maintain law and order.