Apex Court Directs Deployment of Central Forces Following Attacks on Judicial Officers During Electoral Roll Revision
In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India took decisive action to protect judicial officers involved in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal. This intervention follows a grave incident where judicial officers were besieged by anti-social elements, leading the court to issue strong directives to ensure their safety and security.
The situation unfolded in the Kaliachowk area of Maldah District, where seven judicial officers, including three women, were gheraoed by miscreants at the Block Development Office (BDO). Despite immediate communication from the Calcutta High Court to state authorities, a concerning delay in response was observed, with officers finally being released after midnight. During their release, their vehicles were attacked, prompting sharp criticism from the judiciary.
Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, expressed deep dissatisfaction over the state administration's failure to act promptly. The court highlighted that such attacks not only threaten the safety of judicial officers but also challenge the authority of the Supreme Court, constituting criminal contempt as per Section 2(c) of the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971.
In response, the Supreme Court directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to requisition central forces for deployment at locations where judicial officers are engaged in the SIR process. The court also mandated enhanced security arrangements and restricted the number of individuals allowed at venues where objections are adjudicated, limiting gatherings to five persons at a time.
Moreover, the court ordered the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, Director General of Police, and other relevant officials to explain their inaction and issued show-cause notices for their failure to protect the officers. An independent agency, such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or National Investigation Agency (NIA), is to be entrusted with investigating the incident to ensure accountability and impartiality.
The Supreme Court's proactive measures underscore the importance of safeguarding the judiciary's independence and ensuring the seamless execution of the electoral roll revision process. The court's directives aim to prevent any recurrence of such incidents and uphold the rule of law.
Bottom Line:
Judicial officers deputed for adjudication of objections under Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls must be provided with adequate security by the State and Election Commission of India (ECI) - Any obstruction or harm to judicial officers discharging their duties constitutes criminal contempt and reflects a failure of administrative and police authorities.
Statutory provision(s): Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 Section 2(c)
In Re: Safety and Security of Judicial Officers, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2876843
