The Supreme Court has upheld the Calcutta High Court’s order for a CBI investigation into the Sandeshkhali violence, despite opposition from the West Bengal government. This decision centers on allegations of land-grabbing and sexual assault involving Shajahan Sheikh, a suspended leader of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), and his associates.
The bench, comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, dismissed the state government’s appeal against the High Court’s directive. The High Court had taken suo moto cognisance after reports surfaced regarding alleged sexual harassment and forcible acquisition of tribal lands.
Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the West Bengal government, emphasised that the state had taken substantial steps to address the allegations, including setting up commissions and initiating local inquiries. He argued that the High Court’s order encompassed a wide array of allegations beyond the specific incident involving the ED, such as the ration scam, which, according to him, required separate consideration.
The bench remained unconvinced by Singhvi’s submissions, asserting that all cases related to the Sandeshkhali incidents would indeed fall under the purview of the CBI investigation. Justice Gavai expressed dissatisfaction with the state government’s delayed actions, remarking, “You don’t do anything for months.” His sentiments were echoed by Justice Viswanathan, who questioned the effectiveness of the Bengal Police in handling cases registered years ago.
The court clarified that its decision did not intend to influence the CBI’s impartial conduct of the investigation, emphasising that observations made during the proceedings should not bias the investigative process.
The turmoil in Sandeshkhali, a locality in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, began with reports of an attack on Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials allegedly by followers of Shajahan Sheikh. The incident raised significant concerns, with subsequent investigations revealing a broader pattern of criminal activities, including allegations of sexual harassment and illegal occupation of tribal lands.
Responding to public outcry and media reports, the Calcutta High Court took suo moto cognisance of the situation in Sandeshkhali. In February 2024, the High Court initiated proceedings to investigate allegations of grave misconduct involving Sheikh and his associates. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the state police’s handling of the case, citing delays and procedural lapses.
During the hearings, the High Court highlighted the need for an impartial inquiry into multiple FIRs, which included accusations of a ration scam and other serious offenses allegedly committed by Sheikh and his followers. The court’s directives underscored the judiciary’s proactive stance in addressing issues of governance and law enforcement accountability.
The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the CBI probe underscores the judiciary’s role in ensuring accountability and transparency in high-profile cases involving allegations of serious crimes and administrative misconduct. The verdict is expected to have significant implications for governance, law enforcement, and political dynamics in West Bengal, particularly amidst ongoing political tensions and electoral considerations.
As the investigation proceeds under CBI scrutiny, stakeholders will closely monitor developments, including the enforcement of judicial orders and the outcomes of the probe.
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