Calcutta HC permits Suvendu Adhikari to visit Sandeshkhali amidst turmoil

New Delhi: In a significant development, the Calcutta High Court has granted permission to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Suvendu Adhikari to visit the troubled area of Sandeshkhali, where recent violence and unrest have raised concerns. The decision comes after initial attempts by police to prevent Adhikari's entry into the region earlier in the day.

High court's ruling and latest updates

A division bench, led by Chief Justice TS Sivagnanam, upheld the decision to permit Adhikari's visit, asserting that the conditions outlined by the single-judge bench on Monday were justified. Notably, the court also lifted Section 144 in Sandeshkhali for the next seven days, indicating a relaxation in security measures.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson, Rekha Sharma, has been actively involved in addressing the situation. Following her interactions with women in Sandeshkhali, where disturbing accounts of harassment and violence emerged, Sharma has called for urgent action from the Supreme Court. She advocates for the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter comprehensively.

Political tensions and legal challenges

Despite the court's decision, challenges persist as political tensions escalate. Adhikari, accompanied by five MLAs, faces opposition from local authorities, raising concerns about the judiciary's authority in the region. The BJP alleges deliberate obstruction by the Trinamool Congress (TMC)-led government, emphasizing the need for judicial intervention to ensure the safety and rights of citizens.

Sharma urges Mamata Banerjee for resignation

Amidst the chaos, demands for accountability resonate strongly. Sharma has urged Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's resignation and the imposition of President's Rule, citing the state government's failure to address the crisis effectively. Furthermore, she highlights the urgency of apprehending absconding TMC leader Shahjahan Sheikh to restore order and ensure justice for the victims.

Future outlook and collaborative efforts

As tensions simmer and legal battles unfold, collaborative efforts are underway to stabilize the situation. CPI(M) member Brinda Karat, along with state and district leadership, plans to visit Sandeshkhali to assess the ground reality and extend support to affected communities. Additionally, West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose has initiated measures to provide a safe haven for women within the Raj Bhavan premises, demonstrating a collective commitment to safeguarding human rights and restoring peace.