1. Calcutta High Court criticizes the West Bengal government’s response to Sandeshkhali unrest.
2. The Court condemns the notion of one individual exerting control over the population.
3. Absconding TMC leader accused of serious offenses highlighted in court’s critique.
Kolkata, Feb 20: The Calcutta High Court delivered a scathing critique of the West Bengal government’s handling of the Sandeshkhali unrest.
It emphasized that allowing one individual, particularly an absconding Trinamool Congress leader accused of serious offenses, to hold the entire population at ransom is unacceptable.
Denial of Appeal
Despite the West Bengal government’s appeal against BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari’s request to visit Sandeshkhali, the division bench, comprising Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam and Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya, upheld Adhikari’s right to visit the area.
This decision came after a single bench initially granted Adhikari permission to visit Sandeshkhali.
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Call for Surrender
Expressing dismay at Sheikh Shahjahan’s evasion of authorities, the court announced its intention to compel him to surrender. It stressed the importance of holding accountable the individual allegedly responsible for orchestrating the unrest in Sandeshkhali.
Allegations of Sexual Assault and Land Grabbing
The court referenced the serious accusations leveled against Sheikh Shahjahan and his associates by numerous women in Sandeshkhali.
These accusations include allegations of sexual assault and land grabbing, which have triggered widespread outrage and condemnation.
Sheikh Shahjahan’s Evasion
The court highlighted Sheikh Shahjahan’s evasion of authorities, particularly after a mob, purportedly linked to him, attacked Enforcement Directorate officials during a raid related to a ration scam on January 5. Despite facing multiple charges, Sheikh Shahjahan has managed to evade arrest, raising concerns about law enforcement’s effectiveness in apprehending him.
State’s Responsibility
In rebuking the state government, the court underscored its obligation to uphold the rule of law and ensure the safety and security of its citizens. It criticized the state’s failure to apprehend Sheikh Shahjahan and emphasized the need for a more proactive approach to address the grievances of the affected individuals.
Upholding Justice
The court reaffirmed the principle of due process and the importance of investigating all allegations thoroughly, regardless of their nature. It emphasized that even in the face of false accusations, genuine claims must be diligently investigated to uphold justice and ensure accountability.
The Calcutta High Court’s stern rebuke of the West Bengal government underscores the gravity of the situation in Sandeshkhali.
By calling for Sheikh Shahjahan’s surrender and emphasizing the state’s responsibility to uphold the rule of law, the court sends a clear message about the importance of accountability and justice in addressing such incidents.
