Did the Calcutta HC Order an Investigation into a School Teacher's Humiliation?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court has demanded a detailed report on the alleged mistreatment of a school teacher by a Trinamool Congress leader. This incident highlights concerns regarding workplace conduct in West Bengal, raising questions about political accountability and women's rights in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The Calcutta High Court has initiated an investigation into alleged misconduct involving a school teacher.
- The viral video has sparked significant public outrage regarding women's treatment in professional settings.
- Local political accountability is under scrutiny amid rising concerns about workplace harassment.
Kolkata, Nov 22 (NationPress) The Jalpaiguri Circuit Bench of the Calcutta High Court has mandated the District Inspector of Schools (Secondary) in Jalpaiguri to provide a comprehensive report regarding the alleged humiliation of a female educator by the chairman of her school’s managing committee, who also presides over the Trinamool Congress–run Jalpaiguri Municipality.
Justice Kaushik Chanda issued this order on Friday, with the official document becoming available on Saturday morning.
A video that gained significant attention earlier this month depicted Jalpaiguri Municipality chairman, Saikat Chatterjee, compelling the woman teacher from Suniti Bala Sadar Girls High School in Jalpaiguri district to perform sit-ups while holding her ears within the school grounds.
The Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, disseminated this video on his social media platforms, asserting that the humiliation of women in professional settings, primarily by grassroots leaders of the Trinamool Congress, has surged in West Bengal.
Subsequently, the headmistress of Suniti Bala Sadar Girls High School, Sutapa Das, approached the Jalpaiguri Circuit Bench of the Calcutta High Court, requesting the removal of Chatterjee from his position as chairman of the educational institution's managing committee.
During the hearing on Friday, Justice Chanda expressed considerable discontent with the behavior displayed in the video, labeling it as "obnoxious". He then instructed the district inspector of schools to investigate the situation and submit a report to the court within two weeks.
This incident is not Chatterjee's first brush with controversy. In 2023, the tragic suicide of two residents from Pandapara Road, lawyer Subodh Bhattacharya and his wife Aparna, after ingesting poison, incited public outrage. Their suicide note allegedly implicated Chatterjee—then the district president of the Trinamool Congress youth wing and municipal vice-chairman—along with several other TMC councillors.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the ongoing issues surrounding women's rights and political accountability in West Bengal. The recent actions of local political figures, coupled with public outrage, reflect a growing demand for change. This incident underscores the need for systemic reforms to protect educators and ensure a safe work environment.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Calcutta High Court's intervention?
The court intervened following a viral video showing a school teacher being humiliated by a political leader, raising concerns about workplace conduct.
Who is the chairman involved in the incident?
The chairman is Saikat Chatterjee, who also leads the Trinamool Congress-run Jalpaiguri Municipality.
What actions have been taken by the school administration?
The headmistress of Suniti Bala Sadar Girls High School has filed a plea for Chatterjee's removal from his position.
What was Justice Chanda's reaction during the hearing?
Justice Chanda expressed strong disapproval of the actions seen in the video, labeling them as 'obnoxious.'
Is this the first controversy involving Saikat Chatterjee?
No, Chatterjee has faced controversy previously, including being implicated in a tragic suicide case in 2023.
