Calcutta HC pulls up Mamata Banerjee govt on Sandeshkhali row

Kolkata: The Calcutta High Court on Thursday pulled up the West Bengal government led by Mamata Banerjee, while hearing the affidavits regarding the allegations of violence, extortion, land grabbing, and sexual assault in Sandeshkhali.

The court reminded the ruling Trinamool Congress that it couldn’t evade responsibility if the allegations were proven true.

During the hearing, a bench headed by Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam expressed, “Even if one affidavit is accurate, it is shameful. Even if one percent of it is valid, it is utterly disgraceful.”

He further emphasized, “The entire district administration and ruling party bear 100 percent moral responsibility.”

The Chief Justice also criticized Sheikh Shahjahan’s lawyer, who demanded an investigation into the allegations.

“You are representing an accused who is currently under investigation. First, address any doubts surrounding your own conduct before raising concerns,” remarked Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam.

He went on to caution the expelled Trinamool leader’s lawyer that if he persists in representing him, then there is a “reasonable suspicion that you may be influenced by those who are currently

Sandeshkhali has emerged as the newest battleground between the TMC and the opposition BJP ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

At the center of this are former TMC leader Sheikh Shajahan and his supporters, who have been accused of sexually assaulting women and grabbing land.

The BJP has accused the TMC of shielding Sheikh.In retaliation, the TMC, after suspending Sheikh, has urged the BJP to take equivalent action against its members facing similar accusations.