New Delhi: In a major security breach, a man was arrested in Darjeeling district, West Bengal, for possessing sensitive documents related to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and a significant quantity of radioactive materials.
The arrested individual, Francis Ekka, is the husband of Amrita Ekka, a prominent leader of the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) in the Naxalbari Panchayat Samiti. The arrest took place on November 26 during a joint operation by the Indian Army and West Bengal Police in Belgachi village, located in the Naxalbari block.
Authorities reported that Ekka was found in possession of several classified DRDO documents, along with a large quantity of Californium, a highly dangerous radioactive element. A police officer confirmed the seizure, stating, “The accused had sensitive DRDO materials and a substantial amount of Californium, which is extremely hazardous. He could not provide any valid explanation for possessing these materials.” The officer further added that the market value of just one gram of Californium could be around Rs 17 crore.
Ekka has been charged with smuggling sensitive defense-related documents and radioactive substances. Authorities are investigating his potential links to foreign organizations, and the police have sealed the residence from which the materials were recovered.
The arrest has sparked political controversy, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the TMC of complicity in activities harmful to national security. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla criticized the TMC leadership, saying, “The fact that the husband of a TMC leader was found with such dangerous materials raises serious concerns about the party’s involvement in anti-national activities.” Poonawalla also questioned the local administration’s awareness of the situation, suggesting negligence or possible complicity.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are focused on uncovering any foreign connections linked to Ekka. The case has intensified scrutiny of the TMC, with calls for a thorough and impartial investigation.
