TMC leader held for receiving cut money

Kolkata: A Trinamool Congress leader from Malda's Ratua was arrested on Wednesday for receiving cut money.

The development comes a day after Trinamool Congress Supremo Mamata Banerjee had given a clear warning that none of her party leaders would be allowed to make money from government funds disbursed for various projects.

Banerjee had also made it clear that no party leaders would be allowed to take cut money with an assurance of providing the government schemes. Stern action would be taken against those who will be found grabbing government funds.

During a meeting with the councillors of her party from various municipalities and municipal corporations on Tuesday, Banerjee stated that her party has no place for those who make money out of government funds. She had reiterated that those shifting to other parties after siphoning money will not be spared and will also face corruption probe.

The accused, identified as Sukesh Yadav, allegedly received nearly Rs 1 crore as cut money. The Trinamool Congress leader had been the head of Mahanandatola Gram Panchayat in Malda's Ratua. It has been learnt that Yadav was accused of taking money from the funds allocated for Nirmal Bangla Mission.

Some senior Trinamool Congress leaders in the district had also admitted to his involvement in the misappropriation of public money. There were many complaints against Yadav from various quarters as well.

The investigating officers are conducting a probe to find out if Yadav had taken money from any other projects. Police have started a detailed probe into the incident and are trying to ascertain if any others were involved in the incident.

It can be mentioned here that on Tuesday, Banerjee had asserted that her party will give election tickets only after reviewing the work of the councillors. She also reminded the councillors that a party representative who works for the people, never loses an election.

Individual tickets will be handed over to councillors by the party on the basis of their performance, Banerjee had clarified on Tuesday.