Former West Bengal Chief Minister and All India Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee appeared before the Calcutta High Court in lawyer’s robes in connection with a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) concerning alleged post-poll violence in West Bengal.
The matter was heard by a Division Bench comprising Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen in the case titled Sirsanya Bandopadhyay v. Union of India & Ors.
The PIL was filed by advocate Sirsanya Banerjee, son of TMC leader and Senior Advocate Kalyan Banerjee, regarding violent incidents reported after the declaration of the West Bengal Assembly election results.
Allegations of Post-Poll Violence in West Bengal
According to the PIL, widespread incidents of violence, including arson, looting, physical assault, and displacement of families, were reported after the election results.
The petition alleged that:
- Several incidents targeted TMC workers and ordinary citizens.
- Around 60 shops were allegedly burnt in Khejuri.
- Multiple families were displaced and unable to return home.
- FIRs were allegedly not registered by local authorities.
- Victims allegedly did not receive adequate police protection.
The PIL further stated that the situation amounted to a violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution of India.
Mamata Banerjee’s Submissions Before the Court
During the hearing, Mamata Banerjee reportedly urged the Calcutta High Court to issue directions to protect citizens in view of the ongoing violence and vandalism.
She alleged that women, children, and minorities were not spared during the incidents. It was also submitted before the Court that several TMC workers were killed in the violence.
The petition sought directions for:
- Registration of FIRs
- Protection to affected citizens
- Rehabilitation of displaced families
- Restoration of damaged properties
- Preventive measures against further violence
Calcutta High Court Hearing Similar PILs
The Calcutta High Court is also hearing another PIL raising similar concerns regarding post-poll violence in the State.
The Court is expected to examine issues relating to law and order, protection of citizens, and administrative response to the incidents.
Importance of the Case
The matter has attracted significant political and legal attention because it concerns alleged breakdowns in law and order following election results in one of India’s most politically sensitive States.
The case also highlights the role of constitutional courts in addressing allegations of violence, ensuring protection of fundamental rights, and examining accountability of public authorities.
Conclusion
Mamata Banerjee’s appearance before the Calcutta High Court in lawyer’s robes has drawn widespread attention amid ongoing debates surrounding alleged post-poll violence in West Bengal. The PIL raises serious concerns regarding citizen safety, administrative response, and constitutional protections.
The outcome of the proceedings may have significant implications for future handling of election-related violence and public order issues.
