Kolkata Ward 134 Ex‑Councillor Walks Free Following Bail in Money‑Ransom Probe

Shams Iqbal, who formerly served as the councilor for ward 134 in Kolkata, secured bail on Monday after being arrested for alleged forced money collection. The arrest was made by officers of the Garden Reach police station.

The complainant, a businessman from the same locality, withdrew the case hours after the arrest, prompting the court to set bail at a private surety of one thousand rupees. Police explained that the withdrawal resulted from an amicable settlement between the two sides.

Authorities allege that Iqbal demanded a total of 70 lakh rupees from the businessman, threatening violence and even brandishing a weapon when the payment was not forthcoming. The allegations were filed under several provisions of the Indian Penal Code along with the Arms Act, including clauses that are typically non‑bailable.

Iqbal has been linked closely with former mayor Firhad Hakim and has often been seen in public events alongside the senior politician. His social media presence showcases a lifestyle marked by luxury cars, overseas trips, and photographs with celebrities, fueling public curiosity.

Other individuals named in the FIR include Mohammad Faraz, Feroz Qureshi, and several of Iqbal’s close associates, who are accused of exercising significant influence in the Garden Reach area.