Calcutta HC Orders Kolkata Police Report on Suvendu Adhikari Heckling Incident
Synopsis
In a significant development, the Calcutta High Court has mandated a police report concerning the heckling of opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari by booth-level officers. The incident raises serious questions about security and political conduct amidst ongoing tensions in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
The Calcutta High Court has ordered a report from Kolkata Police on the heckling of Suvendu Adhikari.
The incident occurred outside the Chief Electoral Officer's office amid ongoing political tensions.
Adhikari has filed a petition addressing security concerns related to the protest.
The court has requested updates on actions taken against the booth-level officers involved.
This follows a history of incidents affecting Adhikari's security.
Kolkata, Feb 27 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court has directed Kolkata Police to provide a report regarding the reported heckling incident involving the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, by a group of booth-level officers (BLOs) outside the office of the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of West Bengal. A division bench comprising Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen instructed the police to submit the findings by March 5, following a petition filed by Adhikari alleging that local police failed to intervene during the heckling episode at the CEO's office gate on Tuesday.
The bench also demanded that the Kolkata Police report on the measures taken against the implicated BLOs.
On Tuesday, tensions flared outside the CEO's office in central Kolkata when protesting booth-level officers assembled there as Adhikari arrived to present a deputation. Some protesters were even seen throwing shoes at the opposition leader.
In the aftermath of this incident, Adhikari strongly condemned the actions of the protesting BLOs and expressed his dissatisfaction with their behavior.
It is noteworthy that a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the security of the Leader of the Opposition is already pending before the Chief Justice’s bench of the Calcutta High Court. This PIL seeks orders to ensure that political supporters do not approach the Leader of the Opposition during public events or official engagements, aimed at preventing security breaches.
The recent petition filed by Adhikari also raises specific issues about the recent protest and alleged shortcomings in security protocols.
Previously, Adhikari had approached the Calcutta High Court after his convoy was reportedly attacked by miscreants in Chandrakona, located in the West Midnapore district. He informed the court that instead of taking action against the attackers, the police had registered a case against him.
In response, Justice Suvra Ghosh issued an interim order prohibiting authorities from taking any coercive measures against Suvendu Adhikari regarding that case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What incident prompted the Calcutta High Court's involvement?
The Calcutta High Court intervened following an incident where Suvendu Adhikari was heckled by booth-level officers outside the office of the Chief Electoral Officer in Kolkata.
What actions has the Calcutta High Court requested from the Kolkata Police?
The court has directed the Kolkata Police to submit a report regarding the heckling incident by March 5 and to inform the court about any actions taken against the involved booth-level officers.
What is the significance of the pending public interest litigation (PIL)?
The PIL seeks to ensure the security of the Leader of the Opposition during public events, aiming to prevent any potential security breaches from political workers and supporters.
Have there been previous incidents involving Suvendu Adhikari and the police?
Yes, Adhikari previously approached the Calcutta High Court after his convoy was allegedly attacked, and he claimed that instead of acting against the attackers, the police filed a case against him.
What are the potential implications of this incident?
The incident could impact political relationships and security protocols for public officials in West Bengal, raising concerns about the conduct of political protests.
