Supreme Court condemns Malda attack on judicial officers during electoral roll revision, calls it a brazen challenge to judiciary, orders central forces deployment, seeks accountability from West Bengal officials, and mandates strict security measures to protect judicial independence.
In a stern and unprecedented response, the Supreme Court of India on Thursday took serious exception to the shocking incident in West Bengal’s Malda district, where judicial officers deputed for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls were allegedly gheraoed and attacked. The apex court termed the episode a “brazen attempt” to intimidate the judiciary and a direct challenge to its authority.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, was hearing a suo motu writ petition titled In Re: Safety and Security of Judicial Officers Deputed for Work Relating to SIR of Electoral Rolls in the State of West Bengal and Ancillary Issues. The court issued a series of strict directions aimed at safeguarding judicial officers and ensuring the uninterrupted continuation of the electoral revision process.
Incident in Malda Sparks Judicial Outrage
The apex court took cognisance of a letter from the Calcutta High Court Chief Justice, detailing the disturbing incident in the Kaliachowk area of Malda. According to the report, seven judicial officers, including three women, were surrounded by anti-social elements at a Block Development Officer (BDO) office from around 3:30 p.m. and were released only after midnight.
The Bench expressed grave concern over the inhumane conditions faced by the officers. “We are informed that the situation was so dire that even food and water were not permitted to be supplied to the judicial officers,” the court observed.
Sharp Criticism of State Administration
The Supreme Court did not mince words in criticising the response of the state machinery. It noted that despite being alerted in the afternoon, the civil and police administration displayed “conspicuous inertia” and failed to take timely action to rescue the officers.
Describing the incident as a “calculated, well-planned and deliberate act intended to demoralise judicial officers,” the Bench stated that it reflected a “complete failure” of law enforcement authorities in maintaining order.
The court specifically pulled up top officials, including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police, District Collector, and Superintendent of Police. It termed their conduct “highly deplorable” and directed them to explain why no effective measures were taken despite being informed of the situation.
“They owe an explanation to this Court as to why, upon being informed that the judicial officers had been gheraoed, no effective steps were taken to secure their safe evacuation,” the Bench said, issuing show-cause notices to the officials.
Warning Against Threats to Judicial Independence
Emphasising the seriousness of the matter, the apex court warned that it would not tolerate any attempt to create a climate of fear among judicial officers. It asserted that such actions could amount to criminal contempt under the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.
“We have no hesitation in observing that we will not permit any person to take the law into their own hands,” the court remarked, underlining its commitment to protecting the dignity and independence of the judiciary.
Key Directions Issued by the Supreme Court
To prevent recurrence of such incidents, the Supreme Court issued a comprehensive set of directions:
- The Election Commission of India has been directed to requisition and deploy adequate central forces at all locations where judicial officers are posted for SIR work.
- Authorities must ensure robust security arrangements at both workplaces and residential premises of judicial officers and their families.
- A strict crowd control mechanism must be implemented, limiting entry to no more than five persons at a time in venues where objections under the SIR process are being heard.
- The court ordered that any perceived threats must be assessed promptly and addressed without delay.
Probe by Independent Agency Ordered
In a significant move, the Supreme Court directed that the investigation into the incident be handed over to an independent agency such as the Central Bureau of Investigation or the National Investigation Agency. A preliminary inquiry report has been sought directly by the court.
Additionally, compliance reports have been demanded from the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, and Chief Electoral Officer of West Bengal.
The apex court has also mandated that all concerned officials remain present virtually during the next hearing scheduled for April 6.
Implications for Electoral Process and Governance
The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of officials engaged in the electoral process and the broader implications for governance and rule of law. The Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls is a crucial exercise to ensure free and fair elections, and any disruption to it could undermine democratic processes.
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Legal experts believe the Supreme Court’s strong stance sends a clear message that any attempt to obstruct judicial or electoral functions will be met with strict action. The case is likely to have far-reaching consequences for administrative accountability and the enforcement of law and order in sensitive regions.
