In a development that has left local residents stunned and sparked political embarrassment, an ambulance meant to save lives of the poor has allegedly been stolen and sold— piece by piece. What makes the episode even more explosive is that the accusation is not coming from political rivals, but from within the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) itself.
The incident has surfaced from Hingalganj in North 24 Parganas, where Salim Mollah alias Pintu, the TMC’s local unit president, has been accused by party workers of stealing and selling the ambulance. Party members have raised open allegations against him and submitted a written complaint to the District Magistrate, demanding action.
According to complainants, a letter signed by local residents has been sent to the district administration, with copies forwarded to the police and other authorities. Despite the gravity of the allegations, it is claimed that no visible action has yet been taken.
TMC workers allege that the ambulance was procured from the MPLAD fund of late MP Haji Nurul Islam and was attached to the Chakpatli health centre. For years, the vehicle served as a lifeline for hundreds of villagers, offering affordable transport for critically ill patients and expectant mothers. Then, without warning, the ambulance vanished.
According to party insiders, investigations revealed the alleged involvement of Salim, triggering unrest across the Patlikhanpur Gram Panchayat area. The BJP quickly seized on the controversy, mocking the ruling party and branding it a party of “ambulance thieves.” Salim, however, has rejected the allegations outright, claiming they are the result of a political conspiracy.
Sources say the ambulance had broken down and was taken from the panchayat office to a spot near the residence of its driver, Mizanur Rahman, for repairs. Allegedly, it lay there unattended for nearly a year. Taking advantage of the neglect, Salim is accused of siphoning off the vehicle and selling its parts — including the chassis — gradually. Notably, these allegations have been voiced by a section of the TMC itself.
Local TMC worker Shamsur Ali Gazi did not mince words. “Salim is the area president. This unethical act happened under his leadership. The ambulance was stolen and sold, and the villagers are suffering. Earlier, patients could avail ambulance services for Rs 1,000. Now they are forced to hire private vehicles at double the cost,” he said.
The impact on daily life has been severe. With no ambulance available, residents allege that patients are often ferried to hospitals in e-rickshaws or auto-rickshaws, turning medical emergencies into desperate gambles.
A senior district administration official has assured that the matter will be investigated and appropriate steps taken. But on the ground, patience is wearing thin.
Denying all charges, Salim struck a defiant note. “Many people cannot tolerate my rise in politics. I am a loyal soldier of the TMC and follow Mamata Banerjee’s ideals. That is why some people are conspiring against me. I know nothing about this matter,” he said.
The BJP, meanwhile, sharpened its attack. Palash Sarkar, president of the BJP’s Basirhat organisational district youth wing, launched a blistering critique. “That TMC leader’s ‘talent’ knows no limits. Even thieves would feel insulted by him. We have heard of scams before, but now ambulances meant for patients are being stolen and sold. Even after this, the police cannot touch him. Whose fear is stopping his arrest?” he asked, adding that the people of Bengal were ready to “throw out this government of ambulance thieves” in the 2026 Assembly elections.
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