Did the Calcutta HC Provide Interim Relief to Suvendu Adhikari Over Derogatory Comments?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court has stepped in to protect Suvendu Adhikari from potential coercive actions over derogatory remarks against a former IPS officer, sparking discussions on political accountability in West Bengal.
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court grants interim protection to Suvendu Adhikari.
- Adhikari is accused of derogatory remarks against a former IPS officer.
- Police are instructed not to act on the FIR but continue the investigation.
- Virtual questioning may replace physical appearances for Adhikari.
- The case reflects ongoing political tensions in West Bengal.
Kolkata, Jan 15 (NationPress) - A single-judge Bench of the Calcutta High Court has granted interim protection from coercive action to the Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, regarding an FIR filed against him.
In the complaint, Adhikari is accused of making derogatory remarks about former Indian Police Service (I.P.S.) officer and current district vice-president of Trinamool Congress in Malda district, Prasun Bandyopadhyay.
Justice Suvra Ghosh, who presided over the single-judge Bench, not only granted interim protection from coercive measures but also instructed the police to refrain from taking action on the FIR lodged against Adhikari at Chanchal Police Station based on Bandyopadhyay's complaint.
Nevertheless, Justice Ghosh stated that the investigation would proceed, requiring Adhikari to cooperate with the Investigating Officers.
Furthermore, Justice Ghosh exempted Adhikari from appearing in person at the Chanchal Police Station, allowing for virtual questioning if necessary.
Bandyopadhyay had contested the Malda (Uttar) Lok Sabha seat in the upcoming 2024 elections but was defeated by the two-time BJP MP, Khagen Murmu.
On January 2, during a public meeting in the Kalambagan area under the jurisdiction of Chanchal Police Station, Adhikari reportedly made an offensive verbal attack on Bandyopadhyay, labeling him as “a robber, a lecher, and a characterless person.”
Following this incident, Bandyopadhyay lodged a formal complaint, leading to the FIR's registration.
Adhikari sought relief from the FIR through Justice Ghosh’s Bench, and after hearing the matter on Thursday, interim protection was granted.
Point of View
The situation surrounding Suvendu Adhikari reflects the ongoing tensions within West Bengal's political landscape. Legal interventions such as this emphasize the need for accountability and due process, even amidst politically charged environments. Upholding rights while ensuring justice is paramount in maintaining the integrity of our democratic institutions.
NationPress
15/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason behind the FIR against Suvendu Adhikari?
The FIR was lodged due to derogatory comments made by Suvendu Adhikari about Prasun Bandyopadhyay, a former IPS officer.
Who is Prasun Bandyopadhyay?
Prasun Bandyopadhyay is a former Indian Police Service officer and currently serves as the district vice-president of the Trinamool Congress in Malda district.
What does interim protection mean?
Interim protection refers to a temporary relief granted by the court to prevent coercive actions against a party while the case is still being investigated.
Will the investigation continue despite the interim protection?
Yes, the investigation will continue, and Suvendu Adhikari must cooperate with the Investigating Officers.
What impact could this have on West Bengal politics?
This situation underscores the volatile political climate in West Bengal and highlights issues of accountability and freedom of speech within political discourse.
