Cops raid TMC MLA’s Pailan homes, find pool, cave, landscaped lawn

Kolkata: Police on Thursday conducted a raid on the residences of Trinamool MLA and former minister of state for transport Dilip Mondal in the Pailan-Amgachhia area. Since morning, police personnel have been at the two sprawling palatial houses located barely 100 m apart.Investigators were reportedly astonished by the lavish arrangements on both premises, which include a swimming pool, landscaped parks, decorative caves, fountains, expensive foreign cars, exotic dogs, cockatoos, and even caged macaws. Large manicured lawns divided by a grand entrance gate, ornamental plants, flower gardens and statues of tigers and deer added to the grandeur of the estate.Despite the political challenges faced by Trinamool in recent years, Mondal retained his electoral stronghold and emerged victorious in the 2026 assembly elections. The police action is reportedly linked to a controversial speech by Mondal during a victory rally from Pailan to Amgachhia on May 11. Portions of the speech, which later went viral on social media, allegedly contained threatening remarks aimed at political opponents accused of capturing and vandalising party offices and attacking Trinamool supporters after the polls. In the clip, Mondal allegedly warns he would no longer "show restraint". He was also heard saying he was "not afraid of the police". Several cases were registered against him. Police said Thursday's raids were part of that investigation.According to investigators, CCTV footage from the residence shows Mondal leaving through the rear around 9 am, shortly before cops arrived. His whereabouts remained unknown till late evening.Sleuths also found wooden swings, designer furniture and an artificial cave structure in the compound. Officials are examining the purpose and construction of the cave.The scale of luxury has also raised questions over alleged corruption and disproportionate assets. While Trinamool netas largely avoided commenting on the issue, BJP's Somnath Roy alleged Mondal was involved in "multiple corruption-linked activities" and demanded a thorough probe.