Contai: A political storm erupted in East Midnapore’s Contai after an audio clip — allegedly featuring a woman panchayat pradhan recounting an ordeal of molestation — went viral. The scandal has forced Bikas Bez, the president of the Kanthi-III panchayat samiti, to resign from his post and all party positions on Saturday.According to local sources, the incident reportedly took place when the woman pradhan visited the panchayat samiti office to discuss recommendations for road development projects. It is alleged that Bez behaved obscenely and attempted to molest her.Following the incident, the woman reportedly contacted TMC seniors and complained over the phone. A recording of this conversation leaked and spread rapidly across social media platforms.The controversy gained further momentum when LoP, Suvendu Adhikari, took to X to condemn the incident. He urged the police to take suo-motu cognisance and initiate a probe.Under mounting pressure, Bikas Bez submitted his resignation on Saturday afternoon. Defending himself, Bez claimed the allegations were part of a deeper political conspiracy.“The conspiracy against me is highly condemnable. I do not wish to hold any office until my name is cleared. I am resigning from both the Panchayat Samiti and the party to ensure a fair atmosphere,” Bez stated.East Midnapore SP, Mitun Kumar De, said police are closely monitoring the situation.
