Will the Calcutta HC's Ultimatum Result in Account Seizure for Bengal Govt?
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Synopsis
In a critical move, the Calcutta High Court has compelled the West Bengal government to address overdue payments for court infrastructure. This ultimatum raises questions about accountability and the future of judicial facilities in the region. Will the state heed this warning, or face severe consequences?
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court issues ultimatum to West Bengal government.
- Potential account seizure by RBI if funds are not released.
- Chief Secretary and Finance Secretary required to appear in court.
- Unpaid BSNL bills raise concerns about court service disruptions.
- State's obligation to fund judicial infrastructure highlighted.
Kolkata, Oct 27 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court issued a strong ultimatum to the West Bengal government regarding the disbursement of funds for the infrastructural enhancement of both the high court and lower courts within the state.
A division bench comprising Justice Debangshu Basak and Justice Md. Shabbar Rashidi warned the state of potential account seizures by the Reserve Bank of India.
"Request the Chief Secretary to provide the account number. We may instruct the RBI to seize that account," remarked Justice Basak to the counsel representing the state.
Moreover, the bench mandated Chief Secretary Manoj Pant and Additional Chief Secretary of Finance Prabhat Kumar Mishra to appear in person at the next court hearing, scheduled for November 10.
The court expressed significant concern over the state government's failure to pay BSNL bills for the high court over the past three years. "What will transpire if BSNL disconnects services? Isn’t it the duty of the state government to allocate funds for the high court's development?" questioned Justice Basak.
He further emphasized that if the conditions of the Calcutta High Court were dire, the situation for the lower courts was likely even worse.
Last month, the same bench reiterated that it was the state government's obligation to provide funding for the infrastructure of the high court and lower courts.
It also noted that while a modest portion of the state budget is earmarked for judicial infrastructure development, there has been reluctance from the state administration to timely release even that limited amount.
The court concluded that the state must not view this funding as a charitable act, as it falls under the government’s responsibility to ensure the development of court infrastructure.
Point of View
It is crucial to underscore the importance of judicial infrastructure in ensuring effective governance and access to justice. The Calcutta High Court’s ultimatum places a spotlight on governmental accountability. Timely funding is essential for maintaining the integrity of judicial systems, and the state must prioritize this responsibility to uphold public trust.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Calcutta High Court demand from the West Bengal government?
The court demanded that the West Bengal government ensure timely payment for the infrastructure development of the high court and lower courts.
What could happen if the government fails to comply?
If the government does not comply, the Reserve Bank of India may seize the accounts of the state government.
When is the next court hearing scheduled?
The next court hearing is scheduled for November 10.
Why has the court expressed concern over BSNL bills?
The court is concerned that the state government has not cleared BSNL bills for three years, which could lead to service disconnection.
What is the state's responsibility regarding court infrastructure?
The state government is obligated to allocate and release funds for the development of court infrastructure, which should not be viewed as a charitable act.
