TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh, accused of land grabbing and assault, absconding as party denies shielding him
• TMC leader Shajahan Sheikh accused of land grabbing and sexually abusing women in West Bengal's Sandeshkhali, currently absconding • TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee asserts party not shielding Sheikh, says TMC has "zero tolerance" policy for crime • Area came into spotlight on Jan 5 when ED team attacked by mob while trying to arrest Sheikh • 18 people including Sheikh's close aides arrested so far in connection with complaints of sexual assault, land grabbing, inciting violence • Sheikh rose from small-time worker to prominent TMC leader before allegations surfaced; TMC denies shielding him while opposition alleges protection