Today, on Nov 6th, the Calcutta High Court is addressing a petition by BJP Leader Suvendu Adhikari regarding alleged communal violence against Hindus and Sikhs in Rajabazar. The State denies these claims, attributing the unrest to personal disputes. The Court demands a detailed report, emphasizing the need for security during Chhath Puja, while concerns about media intimidation were raised. Further hearings are scheduled for November 21.
Kokata: The Calcutta High Court has taken up a petition by BJP Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari, flagging concerns over alleged communal violence targeting Hindus and Sikhs in Kolkata’s Rajabazar. This plea highlights an incident Adhikari claims involved attacks on religious places and individuals, although the West Bengal government firmly denies any communal aspect to the unrest, attributing it instead to a personal dispute.
On Wednesday, a Bench comprising Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam and Justice H Bhattacharya directed the State to submit a detailed report and set the next hearing for November 21. “It is the responsibility of the State to ensure that people celebrate the festival with the usual fervour without any hindrance,” the Court stated, urging the government to maintain peace during the ongoing Chhath Puja celebrations.
Adhikari’s counsel raised allegations of violence, particularly noting an alleged “1000-strong mob” from a specific community that attacked temples, a Gurudwara, and statues in Rajabazar. According to the petitioner, “a huge communal situation took place in the heart of the city” with targeted attacks against Hindu and Sikh properties. However, the State’s Advocate General Kishore Datta argued against the communal angle, stating that the unrest arose from an altercation between two individuals, one of whom reportedly fetched a sword and firearm, which subsequently led to chaos.
The Advocate General further argued that the gathering at the scene comprised people from only one community and that “a communal color was being given to a mere dispute between two individuals.” He maintained that the police were swift in action, registering six FIRs and arresting 23 people involved in the disturbance, while also claiming that the narrative of a communal clash was “fabricated” to escalate tensions on social media.
The Court expressed concerns about the lack of broader coverage on the alleged mob violence. Chief Justice Sivagnanam noted that if places of worship were indeed under attack, “it is not an attack against a particular community or sect; it is an attack generally on the public” and should not go unreported. The Chief Justice mentioned that there had been no significant news coverage of such events up until recently.
Adhikari’s counsel countered, stating that journalists who covered the alleged communal violence had faced intimidation, with some being arrested and others allegedly subjected to raids or financial account freezes. He highlighted “intimidatory tactics” by the state, underscoring similar actions taken in “10-12 cases where the State has arrested journalists.”
In response to the state’s challenge that the plea may serve political objectives, Chief Justice Sivagnanam acknowledged Adhikari’s political standing and the weight of his concerns. “He holds a very responsible position,” the Chief Justice remarked, implying that as Leader of the Opposition, Adhikari’s plea may address a genuine public interest.
As the hearing progresses, the Court has emphasized the need for the State to focus on preventive measures and ensure the safety and peace of citizens, especially during the festival season. The upcoming hearing will further examine the details submitted by the State and any response provided by the petitioner.
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