Kolkata, November 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Former West Bengal minister and singer-turned-politician Indranil Sen has been booked under Section 9 of the West Bengal Maintenance of Public Order (WBMPO) Act, 1972, in connection with the alleged fake Durga Puja pass scam linked to UNESCO-tagged festival tours.
The additional charge comes after Sen was booked under seven provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. These include charges relating to criminal breach of trust, forgery, cheating, criminal conspiracy and the use of forged documents as genuine.
According to Kolkata Police sources, Section 9 of the WBMPO Act deals with subversive acts and provides for imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine, or both. The latest development could further complicate Sen’s legal position as the investigation progresses.
Preliminary findings suggest that alleged financial irregularities involving several crores of rupees took place between 2022 and 2025 in the name of UNESCO and Durga Puja celebrations. Investigators are examining the role of Mass Art Society, a corporate entity owned by Sen’s wife, Madhuchhanda Sen.
Police sources also said investigators were probing allegations that substantial amounts were withdrawn from different organisations in the name of UNESCO by using Sen’s influence. The possibility of shell companies being floated or used to divert funds is also under investigation.
Sen remains in police custody and is scheduled to be produced before a Kolkata court again on November 10.
The Kolkata Police and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) are conducting parallel investigations into the alleged scam involving passes for tours of UNESCO-tagged Durga Puja celebrations. Sen was arrested by Kolkata Police after emerging from the ED’s Salt Lake office last week.
The allegations are under investigation, and the charges have not been established in court.
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