Calcutta HC even if one Sandeshkhali complaint is true it is shameful

Kolkata: Calcutta High Court reacts to Sandeshkhali sexual harassment complaints during a recent PIL hearing. They warned that if even one affidavit detailing these allegations turns out to be true, it would be shameful for West Bengal, which claims to be the safest state for women. The court, consisting of Justice Hiranmay Bhattacharya and Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam, blamed district authorities and the Trinamool Congress for the situation.

During the hearing, advocate Priyanka Tibrewal presented 600 affidavits from women in Sandeshkhali, detailing instances of land-grabbing, torture, and even gang rape. The court reserved judgment on the matter, indicating that there should be a court-monitored investigation into these serious allegations of abuse. The Calcutta High Court's stance on the allegations highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough examination of the claims.

Tibrewal, who is also associated with the BJP, urged for an independent commission to look into these matters. The court directed the advocate general, Kishore Datta, to provide all 43 FIRs and charge sheets related to the accused, Sheikh Shahjahan, and his associates. These documents were requested to be submitted by January 5th, the day when ED officials faced violence while attempting to search Shahjahan's home. Calcutta High Court's call for transparency and truth emphasizes the importance of honesty and accountability in addressing the allegations.

Datta raised concerns about the sudden influx of PILs regarding Sandeshkhali, questioning their motives and labelling them as either politically or personally motivated. He urged the court to scrutinize the timing and nature of these PILs, suggesting that they often surface right after unfortunate events and fade away once the issue loses public attention.

Datta also highlighted Sandeshkhali's historical significance, particularly its role in the Tebhaga movement before Independence. He questioned why the residents remained silent about the alleged torture before January 5th.