Kolkata witnessed high drama on Monday morning when a large police contingent, along with central forces, arrived at the Sahapur Colony residence of arrested Trinamool functionary Swarup Biswas and his brother, former state minister Aroop Biswas. During the search, they discovered a heavily fortified room equipped with a high-tech digital lock. Swarup refused to provide the code, leaving officers unable to open it. Police summoned a locksmith, but the advanced digital mechanics thwarted all manual attempts to bypass the lock.
Spot Search and Reconstruction of Crime
Cops had taken Swarup to his residence for a "spot search and reconstruction of crime." Investigators suspect the strong room serves as a vault housing critical files, financial ledgers, and property documents linked to the brothers' widespread operations. Police sources confirmed that alternative technical methods and cutting tools are currently being arranged to breach the room.
Swarup Biswas's Arrest and Allegations
Swarup, the former president of the Federation of Cine Technicians & Workers of Eastern India (FCTWEI), was arrested on June 4 following a complaint by a Tollywood makeup artist. He is accused of running an aggressive "dictatorship" and "syndicate raj" in the Tollygunge film industry. Allegations include blacklisting professionals who refused to comply with financial and sexual demands, and extorting over Rs 22 lakh from job seekers. Furthermore, Swarup is accused of exploiting his brother's political clout to illegally occupy land for the Suruchi Sangha club and running a luxurious hotel on its second floor for illicit activities.
He faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act, including extortion, financial fraud, sexual harassment, and attempt to murder. The Alipore court last Friday remanded Swarup in police custody till June 18. His lawyers have strongly refuted the claims, calling the charges politically motivated.
Aroop Biswas's Involvement
It was not immediately known if Aroop was at home when the police brought his brother. Police sources claimed he has "not been tracked." On Monday, Aroop avoided meeting investigators at Bidhannagar South Police Station regarding the "Messi incident" — the GOAT India Tour-Kolkata Edition featuring Lionel Messi last December. The chief organizer has accused Aroop of criminal intimidation and illegal diversion of complimentary tickets and passes. Having received no protection from the Calcutta High Court, police said they are planning strong legal action against Aroop.
