The Sandeshkhali Saga: A Petitioner's Heartbreak Amidst Political Grandstanding

Imagine fighting tooth and nail for justice, pushing a critical issue through the arduous legal system, and then, just as a significant victory is declared, someone else steps in to claim the credit. That's precisely the sentiment CPI(M) leader Mostari Banu is grappling with. After the Calcutta High Court bravely ordered a CBI probe into the horrific allegations of land grab and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali, it was Banu who, through her petition, laid the groundwork for this pivotal moment. Yet, as the dust settled, she found herself overshadowed, feeling that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had, quite frankly, "stolen the limelight."

It’s a truly disheartening situation, isn't it? Banu wasn't just another voice in the crowd; she was the original petitioner. Her lawyer, Sounak Mitra, was quick to confirm this, emphasizing the dedication and foresight Banu showed in bringing this critical matter before the court. For her, this verdict wasn't merely a legal outcome; it was a vindication, a glimmer of hope for the beleaguered women of Sandeshkhali whose stories had resonated so deeply with her and her party, the CPI(M).

But then came the unexpected twist. After the court's pronouncement, CM Mamata Banerjee, who had earlier dismissed the entire Sandeshkhali issue as a mere "plot," held a press conference. There, she presented a markedly different narrative, suggesting the court had actually acknowledged the state's efforts and that the transfer of the investigation to the CBI wasn't a negative development at all. One can only imagine the sheer exasperation Mostari Banu must have felt watching this unfold. It's a classic political manoeuvre: pivot, reframe, and attempt to seize control of the narrative, regardless of prior positions.

Banu's frustration is palpable. She didn't mince words, directly criticizing the Chief Minister for what she perceived as a blatant attempt to co-opt a victory that wasn't hers to claim. "Suddenly, the CM is concerned?" Banu questioned, the disbelief evident in her tone. "Why didn't she take action sooner if she was so concerned about the victims of land grab and sexual assault?" It's a fair question, one that many observers are likely asking themselves. Where was this swift action, this immediate concern, when the CPI(M)'s women's wing embarked on its fact-finding mission back in February, leading to Banu's petition being filed?

For Banu, this ruling is, without a shadow of a doubt, a "big victory" for the brave women of Sandeshkhali. It's a testament to their resilience and the persistent efforts of activists and petitioners who refused to let their pleas go unheard. While the Chief Minister attempts to portray a sense of state cooperation, the stark contrast in her initial dismissal and her current stance speaks volumes about the shifting political winds. It highlights the often-cynical dance of power, where credit becomes a currency to be acquired, even if it means stepping on the toes of those who truly spearheaded the change.

Moving forward, the CPI(M) isn't resting on its laurels. They're gearing up for further protests, determined to ensure that the CBI investigation is thorough, impartial, and ultimately brings justice to every single victim in Sandeshkhali. Mostari Banu's fight continues, albeit with the added weight of having her hard-won moment eclipsed by political showmanship. Her story is a poignant reminder that even in victory, the battle for true recognition and justice can be an uphill climb.