Kolkata: State urban development and municipal affairs minister Agnimitra Pal on Saturday appealed to citizens not to fall prey to a racket that collects extortion or cut money in the name of state cabinet ministers, including herself. “If someone approaches you and asks for extortion money by taking my name or the names of my cabinet colleagues, don’t believe such claims. Please let us know,” said Pal in a video message.Pal advised citizens not to get influenced by extortionists who might exhibit their photos with the state ministers or BJP politicians and ask for money. “As public representatives, we need to mix with people of all walks of life. That doesn’t mean we share special relationships with all. In such cases, please don’t get influenced by the photos taken in public functions,” said Pal.The state minister assured that stern steps would be taken against the fraudsters if citizens come forward and report such cases. “Our chief minister has categorically made it clear that action will be taken against the collection of ‘goonda’ tax or extortion money,” she said. Pal requested citizens to report such cases with evidence to prevent genuine citizens from getting trapped in such a net.
