The Calcutta High Court on Thursday told the West Bengal government that the state is not a bulldozer state, responding to concerns raised by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over post-poll violence. The remark came as Banerjee donned a lawyer's robe to assist petitioner's counsel Kalyan Banerjee, who argued that total lawlessness currently prevailed in the state.
Court's Observation
Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharya made the observation while hearing a petition related to alleged post-election violence. The court said that the state government should not act like a bulldozer and must respect the rule of law. The comment was seen as a rebuke to the state administration's handling of the situation.
Mamata's Role in Court
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who is also a lawyer, appeared in court to assist the petitioner's counsel. She argued that there was total lawlessness in the state and that the government was not taking adequate steps to control the violence. Her presence in court drew significant attention, as it is rare for a sitting chief minister to appear as a lawyer in a case.
Post-Poll Violence Allegations
The petition highlighted incidents of violence following the recent elections in West Bengal. The petitioner claimed that supporters of the ruling party were attacking opposition workers and that the police were not taking action. The court has asked the state government to file a report on the measures taken to maintain law and order.
The case has been adjourned for further hearing, with the court directing the state to ensure peace and prevent any further incidents of violence.
