Goa, Sept. 15 -- The West Bengal government is preparing to introduce a stringent anti-extortion law aimed at dismantling illegal levy collections and ending the longstanding "syndicate raj" across the state. Under the proposed legislation, extortion will be clearly defined as a distinct, punishable offence with strict legal penalties. A dedicated committee is being set up to draft the framework, classify specific offences, and establish rigorous penalty guidelines for perpetrators.

Addressing extortion was a core promise in the BJP's election manifesto and campaign trail, with leaders assuring voters of swift administrative measures to curb organized collection rackets. State Panchayat Minister Dilip Ghosh emphasized that antisocial ele...