New Delhi/Noida | RBN News
A jurisdictional dispute has emerged between West Bengal Police and Noida Police over an attempted arrest in a case involving the alleged circulation of fabricated private messages attributed to Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra.
The controversy centres on a purported private conversation that surfaced on social media, claiming to be an exchange between Mahua Moitra and political strategist Prashant Kishor. The MP filed a formal complaint, asserting that the content was falsified and maliciously circulated.
Background of the Case
Following the complaint lodged in Nadia district, West Bengal Police registered an FIR and initiated an investigation. During the probe, investigators identified a social media account allegedly operated by one Surajit Dasgupta as the source of the viral post.
A forensic examination conducted by the Forensic Science Laboratory reportedly concluded that the circulated chat was fabricated. Based on the findings, the accused was served a notice to appear before the investigating officer. After he failed to comply, a local court in Nadia issued a warrant for his arrest.
West Bengal Police’s Allegations
According to senior officials in Krishnanagar, a four-member team travelled to Noida to execute the court-issued warrant. Bengal Police claim they located and detained the accused at his residence and were in the process of preparing the arrest documentation when a team of Noida Police personnel arrived at the site.
They allege that their officers were escorted to the local police station and kept there for nearly 90 minutes, during which the accused allegedly absconded. Bengal Police have described the episode as obstruction during lawful execution of a warrant.
Noida Police’s Response
Noida Police have categorically denied any interference. Officials from Phase-2 Police Station stated that the visiting team had not provided prior intimation as required under inter-state operational protocols.
According to Noida Police, they requested time to complete standard procedures, including coordinating a joint operation and informing residential security, in line with protocol. They maintain that a coordinated raid was conducted but the suspect was not present at the location at the time.
Authorities in Noida have asserted that full cooperation was extended and that no officer impeded the arrest process.
Current Status
The accused is reportedly untraceable at present. Senior officials from both states have intervened to de-escalate tensions, while the investigation remains ongoing.
The incident has raised broader questions regarding inter-state coordination in criminal investigations, procedural compliance in cross-border arrests, and the handling of cyber-related offences involving digital evidence.
