After repeatedly skipping summons issued by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Kolkata Police Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sinha finally appeared before central investigators on Thursday, intensifying the spotlight on an ongoing probe linked to alleged extortion, land grabbing and financial irregularities. The senior police officer, who previously served as Officer-in-Charge of Kalighat Police Station, arrived at the ED office in Kolkata’s CGO Complex amid mounting pressure from the agency.
The ED had summoned Shantanu Sinha multiple times over the past few weeks, but he allegedly failed to appear before investigators on each occasion. His continued absence had raised serious concern within the agency, especially after he skipped a crucial summons on April 28.
Following his non-appearance, the ED reportedly issued a Look Out Circular (LOC) to prevent him from leaving the country or evading investigation. According to sources, alerts were circulated to airports across India as well as Border Security Force checkpoints.
Even after the issuance of the LOC, Shantanu Sinha did not immediately respond to subsequent notices from the central agency.
On Wednesday, the ED escalated its efforts by sending an official communication to the Directorate of Security seeking details regarding the senior police officer’s whereabouts and status. Less than 24 hours later, the Kolkata Police DCP finally appeared at the ED headquarters for questioning.
The investigation is reportedly connected to allegations involving businessman “Sona Pappu” from the Golpark area, who has been accused of land grabbing, extortion and several other criminal activities. During the course of the probe, investigators allegedly came across references linking the former Kalighat police station chief to the case.
The ED is also believed to have gathered additional information against Shantanu Sinha after the arrest of Behala-based businessman Joy Kamdar in connection with alleged financial irregularities.
Sources familiar with the investigation claim that the agency had become increasingly determined to question the police officer directly after new leads emerged during interrogation and financial scrutiny.
Although officials have not yet disclosed the exact nature of the questions asked during Thursday’s appearance, the development is being viewed as significant given the prolonged standoff between the officer and the central agency.
The case has already generated intense political and administrative attention in West Bengal, particularly because it involves a senior serving officer of Kolkata Police.
As the ED continues its investigation into alleged financial misconduct and organised criminal networks, Shantanu Sinha’s appearance at the CGO Complex is likely to mark an important turning point in the probe.
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