SIT Probing Former Bengal Minister Indranil Sen Case Expanded, Four More Officers Added

According to police sources, the SIT initially comprised five members, but its strength has now increased to nine. The newly inducted officers are reportedly specialists in anti-forgery operations.

The investigation concerns allegations of fraudulent Durga Puja passes linked to tours associated with UNESCO-recognised celebrations in Kolkata.

Probe Widens to Alleged Tender Irregularities

Sources indicated that investigators have also come across leads pointing towards possible irregularities in tendering processes within the state Tourism Department and the Information and Cultural Affairs Department.

The development has widened the scope of the investigation beyond the alleged fake pass operation. SIT members are reportedly coordinating with both departments to obtain official documents relevant to the probe.

Sen, a singer-turned-politician who previously served as Tourism Minister and Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs, is currently in police custody and is being questioned by investigators.

The SIT has also questioned nine other individuals in connection with the case. Among them is Sen's wife, Madhuchhanda Sen, who owns an entity called Mass Art, allegedly involved in the sale of the disputed Durga Puja passes.

Court Appearance Scheduled for November 10

Sen is scheduled to be produced before a Kolkata court on November 10. Investigators are reportedly seeking to gather further documentary and other evidence before his next court appearance.

The Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are conducting separate investigations into the alleged scam involving passes for Durga Puja tours associated with Kolkata's UNESCO-recognised festival.

Kolkata Police arrested Sen after he left the ED's office in Salt Lake last week. The investigation is continuing, with officials examining the alleged financial and administrative irregularities connected to the case.