Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay’s resignation from the Calcutta High Court on March 5, 2024, was formally recognized by the Union Law Ministry.
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New Delhi: Monday(on 18th March), Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay has officially resigned from his position at the Calcutta High Court. The resignation, which took effect on March 5, 2024, marks the end of his tenure as a distinguished judge and the beginning of a new chapter in his career, as he transitions into the political arena by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The Union Law Ministry released a formal notification confirming Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay’s resignation from the judiciary.
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The notification stated:
“Shri Justice Abhijit Gangopadhyay has tendered his resignation from the office of Judge, Calcutta High Court, in pursuance of proviso (a) to clause (l) of Article 217 of the Constitution, with effect from 05.03.2024 (Forenoon).”
Upon resigning, Justice Gangopadhyay openly shared his motivations for leaving the bench and entering politics. He expressed his disillusionment with the current state of affairs in West Bengal, particularly criticizing the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). He stated that joining the BJP was the only viable path for him to combat what he perceives as a “corrupt” and “goon-infested” administration under the TMC.
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The transition of a high court judge to a political entity is not a common occurrence in India. Typically, the resignations of Supreme Court and high court judges are processed immediately, but it is the responsibility of the Union Law Ministry to issue a public notification, as was done in this case.
BACKGROUND
Abhijit Gangopadhyay, a former judge of the Calcutta High Court, made headlines by announcing his decision to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) shortly after resigning from his judicial position. He condemned the Trinamool Congress (TMC), equating it with corruption, and expressed his determination to vigorously oppose it. Gangopadhyay refrained from confirming his participation in upcoming elections but expressed willingness to follow BJP directives.
Gangopadhyay submitted his resignation letter to President Droupadi Murmu, with copies sent to CJI DY Chandrachud and Calcutta HC’s Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam, ending his tenure at the Calcutta High Court.