Did the Calcutta HC Approve Suvendu Adhikari's Rallies in North Bengal?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has permitted Suvendu Adhikari to hold rallies in Malda and Cooch Behar under specific conditions. This decision follows a legal battle after police denied initial requests for approval, highlighting the ongoing political tensions in West Bengal as the New Year approaches.
Key Takeaways
- The Calcutta High Court granted conditional permission for rallies.
- Political tensions in West Bengal are palpable.
- Specific attendance and equipment limits were imposed.
- Judicial oversight remains crucial in political matters.
- Rallies are set for January 1 and January 2.
Kolkata, Dec 31 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court on Wednesday granted conditional permission for the Leader of Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, to conduct rallies in the districts of Malda and Cooch Behar in northern Bengal as the New Year approaches.
The BJP leader sought intervention from the high court after he was reportedly denied approval by the police to organize rallies in both regions. The case was presented to the vacation bench of the Calcutta High Court. Following the session, Justice Biswaroop Chowdhury approved the rallies in Malda and Cooch Behar, albeit with specific conditions.
It is significant that Suvendu Adhikari plans to host a rally in Chanchal of Malda district on January 1. Issues arose concerning the acquisition of permission for this event.
The attorney representing the petitioner informed the court that the SDPO's report highlighted concerns regarding crowd management due to the New Year celebrations. The lawyer challenged the police's directives on this matter.
After an extensive hearing, the High Court sanctioned the rally but stipulated certain conditions. According to the court's ruling, a maximum of 9,000 supporters and 70 microphones are permitted at the rally.
Likewise, complications were encountered for another BJP rally scheduled for January 2 in Cooch Behar. The party approached the Calcutta High Court regarding this situation too. During the proceedings, the lawyer disclosed that the district administration was approached last month for permission to gather 5,000 individuals from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Old Post Office Para Ground. However, the BJP's lawyer complained that the police were obstructing the approval process. The state's attorney argued that the location proposed for the rally is government-owned land.
After deliberation, the court also permitted the BJP to proceed with their rally in Cooch Behar, yet limited attendance to 3,000 participants. There will be 20 loudspeakers, eight speaker boxes, and four microphones allowed at this event. The High Court instructed the police to ensure that law and order remains intact during the rallies.
Point of View
The recent ruling by the Calcutta High Court reflects the ongoing political dynamics in West Bengal, with implications that resonate beyond just local governance. As the BJP navigates its rally permissions amidst heightened tensions, this case underscores the importance of judicial oversight in political affairs.
NationPress
05/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the conditions set by the Calcutta High Court for the rallies?
The Calcutta High Court allowed a maximum of 9,000 supporters and 70 microphones at the rally in Malda, while in Cooch Behar, 3,000 attendees were permitted along with 20 loudspeakers, eight speaker boxes, and four microphones.
Why did Suvendu Adhikari seek permission from the Calcutta High Court?
Suvendu Adhikari sought permission after local police allegedly denied him the right to hold rallies in both Malda and Cooch Behar.
When are the rallies scheduled to take place?
The rally in Malda is scheduled for January 1, and the rally in Cooch Behar is planned for January 2.
