Supreme Court issues notices to West Bengal officials over threats to judicial officers

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has expressed serious concern over the violence and intimidation faced by seven judicial officers, including three women, who are adjudicating claims in the Election Commission's SIR process in Malda district, West Bengal. Describing the incident as a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice, a bench led by CJI Surya Kant criticized the State authorities for failing to act promptly despite prior warnings, leaving officers without protection, food, or water for hours.

The Court issued show-cause notices to senior State officials, including the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, and Director General of Police, for their inaction. It directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to requisition and deploy central forces to ensure the safety of judicial officers and the smooth conduct of the SIR adjudication process. Strict security measures were mandated at all venues, with limited public entry and immediate assessment of any threat perceptions faced by officers or their families. Compliance reports and the virtual presence of officials at the next hearing were also ordered.

The Court stated, "Judicial officers must be allowed to perform their duties without fear or obstruction. The incident strikes at the root of the rule of law and appears to be a well-planned attempt to demoralize officers. We will not permit individuals or groups to take the law into their own hands." It termed the conduct as criminal contempt of court and deplored the failure of the State administration, highlighting the responsibility of the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, DGP, Collector, and SSP.

Interim directions were issued to protect officers performing SIR duties. The ECI was instructed to deploy central forces at all adjudication venues, hotels, guest houses, and other accommodations. Any apprehensions or threat perceptions faced by officers or their families are to be assessed and addressed immediately.

Additionally, the Court directed that no more than 3-5 persons be allowed at SIR filing venues at any time. The Chief Secretary and DGP must file compliance reports. The Collector, Chief Secretary, DGP, District Magistrate, and SSP were asked to show cause why action should not be taken against them and to appear virtually on April 6, the next hearing date. (ANI)

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