Mamata Banerjee Makes Direct Appeal to Chief Justice of India
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee delivered a powerful message on Saturday. She addressed Chief Justice of India Surya Kant directly. The occasion was the inauguration of the Jalpaiguri circuit bench of the Calcutta High Court. Banerjee made a fervent plea for the protection of democracy.
A Call to Safeguard Constitutional Values
"Nobody is above you," Banerjee told the CJI during her speech. She emphasized the critical role of the judiciary. The Chief Minister requested the Chief Justice and all judges to ensure the Constitution remains protected from disaster. She stressed that democracy itself must be safeguarded.
Banerjee outlined several key areas needing protection. These include the safety and security of citizens. She also mentioned the importance of preserving history, geography, and national boundaries. Her appeal was broad and deeply concerned with national integrity.
Concerns Over Media Trials and Agency Actions
The West Bengal leader expressed strong concern about current trends. She pointed out that media should not conduct trials before cases reach finalization. Banerjee described this as a troubling trend designed to malign individuals. She specifically urged the judiciary to ensure agencies do not deliberately attempt to defame citizens.
"I am not speaking for myself," Banerjee clarified. She stated her purpose was to save democracy, protect people, uphold the judiciary, defend the country, and preserve the Constitution. "We are under your custody. You are the guardians of the Constitution," she reminded the gathered judicial authorities.
CJI Kant Applauds Infrastructure Development
In his address, Chief Justice Surya Kant appreciated the vision behind the new facility. He acknowledged both the Calcutta High Court and the state government for establishing the circuit bench in Jalpaiguri back in 2019. Before this development, people from the region faced a significant hurdle. They had to travel approximately 600 kilometers to Kolkata in pursuit of justice.
"Today it has got its own home," the CJI remarked about the new bench. He described the building as a sophisticated synthesis. It blends tradition with 21st-century digital agility. Justice Kant stated the structure stands as a clear testimony to judicial decentralization efforts across India.
The Chief Justice also commended the state government for its support. He noted West Bengal has been "a pillar of strength and support" in ensuring such infrastructure reaches the people. "The apex of our judicial system can only be as strong as the foundation laid at the grassroots level," he philosophically concluded.
Union Law Minister Highlights E-Court Project
The inauguration program saw attendance from Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal. During the event, Minister Meghwal emphasized the Central government's ongoing e-court project. He revealed that a substantial allocation of Rs 7,210 crore has been made for this initiative. This project aims to modernize and digitize court processes across the nation.
The event in Jalpaiguri highlighted both cooperation and concerns within India's democratic framework. While infrastructure development received praise, core issues about democratic safeguards and individual rights took center stage through the Chief Minister's appeal.
