Why Did the AISF Legislator File a PIL at the Calcutta HC Over Electrocution Deaths in Kolkata?
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Synopsis
Kolkata faces a grave situation as Nawsad Siddique files a PIL in response to tragic electrocution deaths. This incident raises urgent questions about safety measures in the city during rainy seasons. What actions will authorities take to ensure public safety?
Key Takeaways
- 10 individuals died due to electrocution in Kolkata.
- Nawsad Siddique filed a PIL for compensation and inquiry.
- Chief Minister blames CESC Ltd for negligence.
- CESC needs to improve safety measures.
- Judicial inquiry aims to address recurring electrocution incidents.
Kolkata, Sep 24 (NationPress) Nawsad Siddique, the sole All India Secular Front (AISF) member in the West Bengal Assembly, has taken a significant step by filing a public interest litigation (PIL) at the Calcutta High Court addressing the tragic electrocution fatalities that occurred in Kolkata on Tuesday.
A shocking total of 10 individuals lost their lives in and around Kolkata after coming into contact with exposed wires submerged in rainwater, following a night of heavy rainfall.
In his petition, Siddique demanded compensation for the families of the victims and called for a thorough judicial inquiry into why such electrocution incidents have become alarmingly frequent in Kolkata, particularly during instances of street flooding after rain.
The High Court has accepted the petition, and it is set to be heard by the division bench of Justice Sujay Paul and Justice Smita Das De on Thursday.
On the day of the incident, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee attributed the electrocution deaths to CESC Ltd, a private power utility owned by Sanjiv Goenka, asserting that the company should provide compensation to the victims' families and offer jobs to at least one family member.
CESC not only generates power but also holds a monopoly on power distribution in Kolkata and the nearby district of Howrah. The Chief Minister criticized CESC for failing to modernize its infrastructure despite profiting from operations in West Bengal, claiming the management ignored her warnings regarding safety.
In response, a senior official from CESC stated that among the eight reported electrocutions, five occurred within the victims' homes due to faulty wiring. The official added, "Two cases were linked to street light posts, which are not generally maintained by CESC, and one occurred at a signal kiosk. We will enhance our vigilance to prevent future incidents."
Point of View
I believe the alarming frequency of electrocution incidents during the monsoon in Kolkata highlights a critical public safety issue. The responsibility lies with the authorities to ensure infrastructure is safe and well-maintained. The judicial inquiry called for by Siddique is a necessary step towards accountability and preventing future tragedies.
NationPress
24/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Nawsad Siddique to file the PIL?
The PIL was filed in response to the tragic electrocution deaths of ten individuals in Kolkata due to exposed wires in rainwater.
What does the PIL seek?
The PIL seeks compensation for the families of the victims and calls for a judicial inquiry into the recurring issue of electrocution deaths during rainy seasons.
What actions has the Chief Minister taken regarding this incident?
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has blamed CESC Ltd for the electrocution deaths and demanded compensation and job opportunities for the victims' families.
What is CESC's response to the electrocution deaths?
CESC stated that five of the eight reported deaths occurred due to wiring issues in the victims' homes, and they emphasized the need for vigilance to prevent future incidents.
When will the PIL be heard in court?
The matter is expected to be heard on Thursday by the division bench of Justice Sujay Paul and Justice Smita Das De at the Calcutta High Court.
