Supreme Court Criticizes West Bengal Over Judicial Officer Incident, Orders CBI or NIA Probe

In a strong reprimand, the Supreme Court criticized the West Bengal administration for its failure to protect judicial officers attacked during the SIR drive in Malda. The Court has called for an independent investigation by CBI or NIA and mandated the Election Commission to ensure Central Forces' presence in sensitive areas.

The Supreme Court has sternly rebuked the West Bengal administration for its alleged inaction following a violent attack on judicial officers in Malda district during an SIR drive. The incident, which took place at a BDO office in Kaliachowk, saw judicial officers being held captive by a mob for over nine hours without food or water.

Despite immediate alerts given to state authorities, including the Registrar General contacting the Home Secretary and DGP, no measures were taken until late at night when judicial officers were finally rescued. Post-rescue, their vehicles faced further attacks. The Court has called this a failure of the state administration, describing the situation as "deplorable."

The Court has ordered an independent probe by either the CBI or NIA and directed the Election Commission to deploy Central Forces in judicial areas, ensuring a smooth SIR process. The Chief Justice of India voiced disappointment, highlighting the deep polarization in the state and urging for immediate remedial actions for the safety of judicial officers.

(With inputs from agencies.)