NIA Conducts Raids Targeting CPI (Maoist) Supporters

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted extensive raids at 11 locations across West Bengal, targeting individuals suspected of supporting the banned CPI(Maoist) as part of an ongoing investigation into a conspiracy to revive the organization. The raids, which included areas like Kolkata, Asansol, and Howrah, resulted in the seizure of incriminating documents, electronic devices, and pamphlets. So far, six people, including prominent Maoist leaders Prashant Bose and Sabyasachi Goswami, have been arrested in connection with the case, which was initially filed in April 2022. The NIA is investigating a broader plot allegedly orchestrated by members and sympathizers of the CPI(Maoist) to expand its influence in regions such as Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. Additionally, the NIA searched the home of journalist Prasenjit Chakrabarty, who has previous ties to Maoist activities, further highlighting the agency's crackdown on alleged Maoist supporters. These operations come in response to a directive from Union Home Minister Amit Shah to eliminate left-wing extremism across India.