What killed Sheikh Mafik? CJP digs heels in over death of activist’s father as Bengal police decry ‘false claims’

The death of Sheikh Mohammed Mafik, the father of CJP activist Sheikh Abdul Hafiz, has sparked controversy in West Bengal as police deny linking his death to the attack on the activist. Hafiz visited a local school as part of his father’s “School Thik Karo” campaign, exposing poor conditions inside. On August 13, Hafiz was assaulted by a group of men, who then also attacked his father in an effort to protect him.

While police claim Mafik only sustained minor injuries after the assault and that he later admitted himself to the hospital due to blood pressure issues, Hafiz and his wife Hasina Begum allege the BJP is responsible. Hafiz claims that after the attack, he received threats from local BJP leaders. The police have arrested eight individuals involved in the case, though two remain at large.

The family’s house is still under construction, with basic facilities lacking. Mafik’s daughter, Tania Khatun, says her father worked as a laborer and saved money for the family to receive education and their home. Both Hafiz and Tania are graduates. The family has demanded a court-monitored investigation into the police’s handling of the case, and CJP and CPI(M) leaders have called for the arrest of all those involved within 10 days.

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has dismissed any political connection to the incident, stating the culprits are criminals.