Will the Calcutta HC Ensure Peace Amid Kurmi Agitation?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court's latest ruling regarding the Kurmi community's anticipated rail blockade raises critical questions about governance and social justice. As tensions rise ahead of September 20, how will the authorities balance community demands with public order?
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court emphasizes adherence to past directives.
- Kurmi community seeks Scheduled Tribe status.
- Potential impact on daily life due to planned rail blockade.
- Political tensions rising in Jharkhand and surrounding states.
- State government denies conspiracy allegations.
Kolkata, Sep 18 (NationPress) A division bench of the Calcutta High Court issued a directive on Thursday, instructing both the Indian Railways and the West Bengal government to implement necessary measures to ensure that the rail blockade planned for September 20 by the Kurmi community does not disrupt daily life in the state.
Last month, the Adivasi Kurmi Samaj, the principal organization representing the Kurmi community, announced a rail blockade across tribal regions in West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha, advocating for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for their community.
A petition was filed against the anticipated rail blockade at the Calcutta High Court’s division bench presided over by Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Smita Das De, arguing that this demonstration would lead to significant financial losses for both the state government and the railways.
During the hearing on Thursday, the bench noted that similar rail blockades by the Kurmi community occurred in 2022 and 2023, resulting in substantial losses.
The bench also highlighted that in September 2023, a previous division bench of the Calcutta High Court had issued specific guidelines on managing rail blockades. On Thursday, Justice Paul and Justice Das De reiterated that the Calcutta High Court directives from September 2023 should be adhered to by both the Railways and the state government to manage the upcoming blockade on September 20.
Political and social activism regarding the demand for ST status for the Kurmi community has escalated in Jharkhand.
While Kurmi organizations are gearing up for a series of protests across Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bengal, other tribal groups are vocally opposing this initiative, heightening concerns of potential conflict.
Members of the Kurmi community in West Bengal have consistently alleged that an administrative conspiracy is at play, claiming that the government is attempting to incite tensions between the Kurmis and the Santal community, undermining their movement.
Conversely, the state government has persistently rejected these accusations.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the delicate balance between community rights and maintaining public order. The ongoing demands of the Kurmi community for ST status reflect broader social justice issues. Our stance remains in support of open dialogue and equitable solutions.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kurmi community's demand?
The Kurmi community is advocating for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which they believe will provide them with greater rights and recognition.
When is the rail blockade scheduled?
The rail blockade is planned for September 20.
What action has the Calcutta High Court taken?
The Calcutta High Court has directed the Indian Railways and the West Bengal government to take measures to prevent disruptions to normal life during the blockade.
What concerns have been raised about the blockade?
Concerns have been raised about potential financial losses for both the state and the railways due to the blockade.
How has the state government responded to the allegations?
The West Bengal government has denied any allegations of conspiracy against the Kurmi community.
