Court Directs Immediate Action to Protect Citizens Amidst Recurring Communal Clashes
In a significant move to address the escalating communal violence in Murshidabad district, the Calcutta High Court has issued directives for the deployment of Central Armed Forces to restore normalcy and safeguard the life and property of citizens. The division bench, comprising Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen, emphasized the urgent need for coordinated efforts between state and central agencies to prevent further outbreaks of violence and ensure the protection of fundamental rights enshrined under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The court's directives came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Suvendu Adhikari and others, highlighting incidents of communal riots and damage to public property on January 16-17, 2026, in Beldanga, Murshidabad. The petitioners sought the deployment of central forces and an investigation under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, citing concerns over repeated violent incidents disrupting public order and safety.
The bench acknowledged the gravity of the situation, noting that the violence involved assembly of armed individuals, assaults on police personnel, and vandalism, which necessitated immediate intervention. The court underscored the state's obligation to protect its citizens and directed that all necessary measures be taken to restore peace and normalcy in the affected areas.
In its order, the court instructed the Superintendent of Police and District Magistrate of Murshidabad to ensure the safety and security of residents and property. The state was also advised to fully utilize the existing deployment of Central Armed Forces and consider additional forces if required. The Central Government was granted the discretion to initiate an NIA investigation under Section 6(5) of the NIA Act.
The court's decision reflects its commitment to uphold the constitutional rights of citizens amidst internal disturbances, reiterating the importance of a robust response to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on February 17, 2026, with affidavits from the concerned authorities expected to provide a detailed account of the actions taken.
Bottom Line:
Public Interest Litigation - Communal violence and damage to public property in Murshidabad district of West Bengal - Court directs deployment of Central Armed Forces to restore normalcy and ensure protection of life, liberty, and property of citizens - Directions issued to both State and Central Governments for immediate and effective measures to prevent recurrence of violence.
Statutory provision(s): Article 21 of the Constitution of India, Article 355 of the Constitution of India, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, Section 6 of the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008
Suvendu Adhikari v. State of West Bengal, (Calcutta)(DB) : Law Finder Doc Id # 2841734
