The Supreme Court of India has taken a stern stand against the harassment of judicial officers in Malda’s Kaliachak. A bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi issued show-cause notices to West Bengal’s Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, and the District Magistrate and SP of Malda. Expressing extreme displeasure, the court described the administration’s behavior as “deplorable” and a “complete failure” of the state machinery.

The apex court has mandated the Election Commission to immediately deploy Central Forces to ensure a safe working environment for the judicial officers, extending this security to their private residences as well. The court further directed that no more than 2-3 persons be allowed inside during hearings for voter list objections, and gatherings of more than five people must be prohibited in the vicinity. Taking note of a letter from the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court, the Supreme Court has ordered the state officials to submit a compliance report and appear virtually on April 6 at 4 PM to explain why disciplinary action should not be taken against them. Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Tushar Mehta represented the respective sides in this high-voltage legal battle.