Should a CBI Investigation be Initiated into the Killings of Hargobindo and Chandan Das?
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Synopsis
A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court has referred the petition for a CBI probe into the murders of Hargobindo and Chandan Das to Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam, raising critical questions about justice and safety in the wake of communal violence.
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court refers the case to the Chief Justice.
- CBI investigation is sought by the victims' widows.
- Legal options include waiting for a new bench or approaching the existing division bench.
- NCW highlights the urgent need for justice.
- Tragic murders occurred amid communal unrest over the Waqf Act.
Kolkata, May 6 (NationPress) A single-judge bench at the Calcutta High Court has referred a petition requesting a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the tragic murders of Hargobindo Das and Chandan Das, a father-son pair killed during the recent communal unrest in Samserganj, Murshidabad district, West Bengal. This referral was made to Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam on Tuesday.
The Chief Justice is now tasked with determining which bench will handle the case.
This petition, initiated by the widows of the deceased, was presented before Justice Tirthanker Ghosh. When the case was scheduled for hearing on Tuesday morning, Justice Ghosh recused himself from the matter, as another hearing related to the Murshidabad violence is already in progress in a special division bench consisting of Justice Soumen Sen and Justice Raja Basu Chowdhury.
Consequently, the matter was referred to the Chief Justice for further proceedings.
In addition to seeking a CBI investigation, the widows have also requested Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) protection for their safety. Legal experts suggest that the petitioners have two possible paths forward.
The first option is to await the Chief Justice's decision regarding the new bench assigned to the case.
The second option involves approaching the special division bench of Justice Sen and Justice Basu Chowdhury at the next scheduled hearing regarding the Murshidabad communal violence, which is set for May 15.
On Monday, the National Commission for Women (NCW) made an announcement indicating that it has taken urgent notice of the plea submitted by the widows of the murdered father and son.
The NCW's statement revealed that the letter sent by the widows to Commission chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar was not merely a complaint but rather a desperate appeal for justice, penned by two bereaved women compelled to seek refuge, tormented by grief, and fearful of the very system intended to safeguard them.
The father and son tragically lost their lives after a brutal attack by a mob on April 12 in Jafrabad village under the jurisdiction of Shamsherganj police station. The mob was protesting against the Waqf Act and targeted the two Hindus in their residence.
Subsequently, two brothers, who were neighbors of the victims, were apprehended. One of the widows identified them along with five other individuals in her FIR, stating that they were part of a mob consisting of 150-200 armed assailants. She described how the mob forcibly entered their home and dragged her husband and son outside before brutally murdering them.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this sensitive matter with a focus on justice and the rule of law. The tragic events surrounding the murders of Hargobindo and Chandan Das underscore the need for an impartial investigation to ensure accountability. The involvement of the CBI could provide a thorough inquiry that addresses the concerns of the victims' families while also restoring public trust in the judicial system. In times of communal tension, it is vital to uphold the principles of justice and ensure the safety of all citizens, fostering an environment where such tragic incidents do not recur.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the status of the CBI investigation petition?
The petition for a CBI investigation into the murders of Hargobindo and Chandan Das has been referred to Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam, who will decide which bench will hear the case.
Who filed the petition for the CBI probe?
The petition was filed by the widows of Hargobindo Das and Chandan Das.
What are the two legal options available to the petitioners?
The petitioners can either wait for the Chief Justice's decision on the new bench or approach the special division bench that is already handling related matters.
What was the cause of the communal violence?
The violence erupted during protests against the Waqf Act, leading to the tragic attack on the father-son duo.
What has the National Commission for Women stated about the case?
The NCW has taken urgent cognizance of the plea from the widows, emphasizing the desperate need for justice and safety for the victims' families.
