The Calcutta High Court has recently extended the deployment of central forces in West Bengal for an additional 10 days following the recent panchayat elections. This decision was driven by ongoing concerns about post-poll violence in the state. The court highlighted the necessity of ensuring peace and security in the aftermath of the elections, which had been marred by reports of violence and unrest.
Background and Court’s Decision
The extension order was issued by a division bench led by Chief Justice T.S. Sivagnanam. The court’s directive came after the state government, following the court’s previous orders, requested the continued presence of central forces due to ongoing disturbances in certain areas. The court emphasized that the deployment is crucial to maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of residents in violence-prone regions【239†source】【240†source】.
Legal Context and Implications
The court’s decision underscores the importance of upholding democratic processes and protecting citizens from violence. The Calcutta High Court had earlier directed the State Election Commission (SEC) to ensure the presence of central forces during the elections to prevent violence and ensure free and fair polling. Despite these measures, reports of violence and killings persisted, necessitating the extended deployment of forces【241†source】【242†source】.
Measures and Future Actions
The court also addressed the need for the state police to identify and secure disturbed areas, ensuring adequate deployment of forces to prevent further incidents. The deployment aims to provide a safe environment for residents and support the return of displaced individuals to their homes. Additionally, the court took into account damages to public properties, including educational institutions, and directed appropriate reparations and legal actions against those responsible for the violence【243†source】【240†source】.
This decision by the Calcutta High Court reaffirms the judiciary’s role in safeguarding democratic integrity and public safety, ensuring that violence does not undermine the electoral process and citizens’ rights.