Has the Calcutta HC Ended Suvendu Adhikari's FIR Protection?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has withdrawn the protection previously extended to Suvendu Adhikari against future FIRs. This decision raises questions about the ongoing legal battles faced by the Leader of the Opposition in West Bengal and the implications for state politics. Stay informed about this evolving story.
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court rescinded protection for Suvendu Adhikari.
- Future FIRs can now be filed without prior court approval.
- Justice Jay Sengupta emphasized the temporary nature of the previous protection.
- The court has mandated an SIT investigation for remaining FIRs.
- Adhikari has the option to challenge this ruling.
Kolkata, Oct 24 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court on Friday rescinded the protection previously granted to Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, regarding future FIRs lodged against him by the police without the court's prior consent.
To recap, back in December 2022, a single-judge bench led by Justice Rajasekhar Mantha had provided interim protection to Adhikari, emphasizing that no new FIR could be registered against him without the court's approval.
This protective measure against future FIRs was an extension of an interim stay on 26 FIRs already filed against him by law enforcement.
A challenge to Justice Mantha's order was under review by another single-judge bench of Justice Jay Sengupta at the Calcutta High Court.
On Friday, Justice Sengupta's bench made a ruling that annulled the prior protection against future FIRs without court consent.
Justice Sengupta remarked that the earlier protection was merely an interim solution and could not be sustained indefinitely.
Moreover, Justice Sengupta indicated that the opposition leader's legal team could present any observations regarding the withdrawal of protection by October 27.
Additionally, Justice Sengupta dismissed 15 FIRs that had been registered against the opposition leader prior to the granting of his protective measures.
For the remaining FIRs, Justice Sengupta's bench mandated that a joint special investigation team (SIT), comprising members from both the West Bengal Police and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), would conduct the investigations.
However, legal experts suggest that since a single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court issued the order to withdraw protection, the opposition leader retains the right to contest this decision at higher judicial levels.
Point of View
Our commitment remains to provide unbiased and accurate reporting. The recent decision by the Calcutta High Court to withdraw Suvendu Adhikari's FIR protection is a pivotal moment in West Bengal politics and indicates a significant shift in the legal landscape. As events unfold, we will continue to provide thorough coverage and analysis.
NationPress
24/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Calcutta HC's ruling regarding Suvendu Adhikari?
The Calcutta High Court has withdrawn the protection that prevented police from filing future FIRs against Suvendu Adhikari without prior court approval.
When was the initial protection granted to Adhikari?
The initial protection was granted in December 2022 by Justice Rajasekhar Mantha.
What will happen to the existing FIRs against Adhikari?
Justice Sengupta dismissed 15 FIRs against Adhikari and ordered that remaining cases be investigated by a joint SIT.
Can Adhikari challenge the court's recent decision?
Yes, he has the right to appeal this decision to higher benches or courts.
What implications does this ruling have for West Bengal politics?
This ruling could significantly impact the political landscape in West Bengal, particularly for the opposition.
