One of the last remaining Chinese schools in Kolkata's historic Tangra Chinatown has taken legal action against continued occupation by security forces. Pei May Chinese High School has filed a petition in the Calcutta High Court seeking directions to evict Central Industrial Security Force personnel from its campus.
Sixteen Months of Occupation Without Resolution
The school administration says CISF personnel have occupied eighteen classrooms for more than sixteen months without proper authorization or payment. Three full companies of security forces continue to use the school facilities despite the original arrangement being intended for just two months.
Failed Communications with Government Authorities
School president KC Liu expressed frustration with the lack of response from government officials. "We sent several letters to the government, but received no reply," Liu stated. "We had no alternative but to approach the High Court to reclaim our school, which represents an essential part of Kolkata's Chinese community and Hakka cultural heritage."
Entrepreneur Monica Liu provided additional context about the situation's origins. The state government initially requested temporary use of the school premises following security concerns at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. This request came after the August 2024 gang-rape and murder of a junior doctor at that medical facility.
Cultural Institution Founded in Late 1940s
The Pei May Chinese High School represents more than just educational infrastructure. Established in the late 1940s, the institution serves as a cultural cornerstone for Kolkata's diminishing Chinese community. Community leaders emphasize that the school's continued operation matters deeply for preserving Hakka traditions in the city.
Financial Burden and Operational Challenges
The occupation has created significant practical problems for the school administration:
- No rental payments have been made for using the school facilities
- Electricity bills remain unpaid by the occupying forces
- No formal notice or extension documents have been provided
- Educational activities face disruption due to limited space
Community representatives previously wrote to Nabanna, the state government headquarters, requesting that the school be vacated before Chinese New Year 2025. With another new year approaching, their demand remains unchanged: they simply want their school back.
Government Response and Continuing Occupation
Sources indicate that the state government asked CISF to vacate the premises last year. Despite this request, the security forces have maintained their presence on the school campus. The ongoing occupation continues without clear legal authorization or compensation arrangements.
The Calcutta High Court now faces deciding whether government security needs should override the rights of a historic cultural institution. The school's administration hopes for a swift resolution that allows them to resume normal educational operations and preserve this important piece of Kolkata's multicultural heritage.
