CBI Apprehends Longtime Fugitive in 2021 Post-Poll Murder of BJP Leader

The Capture in Guwahati

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) announced on August 6, 2026, the arrest of Arup Das, also known as Bapi Das, a primary suspect in a high-profile homicide. Das had been a fugitive since the case was formally initiated on August 25, 2021. Authorities apprehended him in Guwahati using a combination of technical surveillance and human intelligence assets.

Key Facts

• Arup Das had a bounty of ₹50,000 offered for information resulting in his arrest.
• The victim, BJP leader Abhijit Sarkar, was killed on May 2, 2021, in the Kankurgachi district following the declaration of West Bengal assembly election results.
• The CBI assumed control of the investigation on August 19, 2021, following a mandate from the Calcutta High Court.
• Formal charge sheets name 38 individuals, including former TMC MLA Paresh Pal and other party figures.

Background

The investigation into Abhijit Sarkar's death stems from a period of intense civil unrest that gripped West Bengal immediately after the state elections. The Calcutta High Court eventually intervened, directing federal agents to take over the local probe. Despite being named early in the legal filings, Das successfully avoided joining the official investigation for nearly five years, prompting the CBI to utilize advanced tracking methods to locate him outside of West Bengal.

What Happens Next

Following his arrest in Assam, Das faces legal proceedings regarding his alleged involvement in the Kankurgachi killing. His capture allows the CBI to proceed with a trial that includes dozens of other accused individuals, including high-ranking political figures from the Trinamool Congress who are already named in the agency's charge sheets.

Source: The Hindu — National