The Impressive TimesNew Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Thursday sharply criticised the administration in West Bengal after a disturbing incident in Malda, where a group of protesters allegedly confined several judicial officers for hours during an electoral revision exercise.
The bench expressed deep concern over what it described as a serious failure in maintaining public order, issuing notices to senior state authorities, including the chief secretary and director general of police. The court sought an explanation on why strict action should not be initiated against them for what it termed as negligence and lack of timely response.
According to reports presented before the court, seven judicial officials—among them three women—were obstructed and prevented from leaving the area by agitated locals. The protest erupted following the removal of certain names from electoral rolls as part of the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process.
Calling the episode “deeply troubling,” the apex court observed that such actions appeared to be deliberate attempts to intimidate officials and derail a constitutionally mandated exercise. It warned that interference in election-related duties would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The court further advised the state government, led by Mamata Banerjee, to coordinate with the Election Commission of India and consider requesting central security forces to ensure the safety of officers engaged in the process.
In a significant direction, the court also granted liberty to the Election Commission to explore handing over the investigation to agencies such as the Central Bureau of Investigation or the National Investigation Agency if required.
The situation reportedly escalated outside a block development office in the Kaliachak area of Malda district. A crowd gathered in the afternoon demanding direct interaction with officials overseeing the revision work. When entry was denied, tensions rose quickly, leading to a prolonged standoff.
As the evening progressed, demonstrators allegedly blocked exits and restricted movement within the premises, effectively trapping the officers inside for several hours. The unrest soon spilled into nearby areas, with road blockades disrupting daily life.
The episode has triggered sharp political reactions. Senior BJP leader and Union minister Sukanta Majumdar condemned the incident, calling it alarming and indicative of deteriorating governance. He alleged that official vehicles were damaged and accused the state leadership of creating an atmosphere that encouraged such confrontations.
Majumdar also drew parallels with past incidents of violence in the state, warning that the situation demands urgent attention to prevent further escalation.
Amid rising tensions, the Supreme Court urged leaders across party lines to avoid politicising the issue and instead focus on ensuring the safety and dignity of officials performing public duties. It emphasised that authorities responsible for maintaining order must act with greater alertness and accountability.
The matter is expected to come up for further hearing as the court examines responses from the state administration and monitors developments closely.
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