Kolkata
Bengal CM Targets Alleged Syndicate Networks and Smuggling
Suvendu Adhikari on Monday directed state authorities to launch a strict crackdown on alleged syndicate operations, illegal sand and coal mining, and cattle smuggling across West Bengal, according to officials at the state secretariat.
During a high-level meeting, the chief minister emphasised the need for stronger monitoring and enforcement measures to curb unlawful activities in different parts of the state.
Adhikari instructed police officers and administrative officials to dismantle the alleged “syndicate raj” that he claimed had been operating in several areas, and called for immediate action against illegal extraction of sand and coal.
The chief minister also stressed that governance and law enforcement should function without political vendetta, while ensuring strict adherence to the rule of law.
Officials said the administration has been asked to increase surveillance in sensitive areas and strengthen coordination among police, mining authorities, and district officials to prevent organised illegal activities.
Illegal mining and smuggling have long been contentious issues in West Bengal politics, with opposition parties repeatedly alleging the existence of organised networks involved in unauthorised extraction and transportation of natural resources.
The latest directives are being viewed as one of the first major law-and-order initiatives undertaken by the new BJP-led government in the state.
Authorities are expected to begin intensified operations and enforcement drives in districts identified as hotspots for illegal mining and smuggling activities.